Getting away for the holidays and off to the ski slopes is proving a real challenge for many, what with the freezing temperatures and snow here in the UK and parts of Europe.
Ouch…. It’s not so bad if the only injuries are to your pride and funny bone. A ski instructor friend was famously known for yelling, “Move zee trees I’m coming down!”
Unfortunately, mishaps and collisions on the slopes occur all too frequently and it’s you – not the trees – that will feel the pain, especially if you don’t have the protection of Winter Sports/Ski Insurance. Wearing a helmet is a good idea – especially for children - and it is law in some ski areas of the world.
If you see or experience a ‘yard sale’ (where you fall and all your equipment comes off down the hill) don’t worry as that’s a good thing. Ski bindings are meant to release when you fall! Ski brakes and snowboard leashes should always be used as they are designed to stop the equipment rocketing away and injuring someone else.
Always check the terms and conditions of your travel and ski insurance policy to make sure that all your planned activities are covered (no matter which policy or company you choose). Check the policy wording regarding skiing off piste, helicopter skiing, or other potentially hazardous mountain fun.
Having insurance does not mean you are covered for irresponsible behaviour or for putting yourself or others in harm’s way. Skiing while intoxicated (from any substance) is also a bad idea and could invalidate your ski insurance for any resulting claims. Take it easy while you acclimatise and slow down on the drinking as the effects of alcohol are enhanced at high altitude.
Take along your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) (or apply for it – it’s free) if you are heading off to another EU country. However, the EHIC should never be used as a substitute for comprehensive travel/ski insurance. The EHIC covers medical care in a state-run facility, but little else. It does not cover potentially expensive matters such as mountain rescue, medical repatriation, personal liability, legal expenses, and lost or stolen equipment or possessions. Let’s hope you never need this sort of help.
For a ski insurance quote that won’t hurt too much click here.
We are pleased to pass along some good cheer to all our customers - and future customers…
Here at Travel Insurance Direct we are happy to announce that we have no plans to pass on the rise in IPT (Insurance Premium Tax – the insurance equivalent to VAT) to our customers and we are succeeding in absorbing most other increases in premium from underwriters.
The price of everything travel-related has gone up dramatically…. Airport departure tax has increased, VAT about to rise from 17.5% to 20%. It all contributes to an even bigger bite out of precious holiday budgets.
Insurers in general have reported that the rise is necessary due to the increased cost of medical claims – and also fraudulent claims. It seems to be the way of the world these days that the actions of the dishonest few means that the rest of us are punished by having to pay more.
Care should always be taken when choosing a travel insurance policy. Check to make sure that it covers all your planned activities, has adequate medical cover, as well as important basics such as emergency medical repatriation, legal expenses and personal liability. For a skiing or winter sports holiday check that it includes mountain rescue and medical repatriation.
Once your travel insurance policy is tucked away in your hand luggage and you are off on holiday, it can be all too easy to forget that the insurance does not provide a license to act irresponsibly! In fact, the safest mindset is to act as if you are not insured.
Many travellers neglect to take out insurance at all, which is crazy, especially when engaging in winter sports or other potentially hazardous activities. The costs that could be incurred if things go wrong are astronomical compared to the relatively small cost of travel insurance.
The costs of emergency medical care in many countries can be very high, and without insurance travellers are stuck paying those bills. Contrary to a mistaken belief held by many, the British Consulate does not cover those costs.
For an example of just how affordable travel insurance can be, our Single Trip travel insurance starts from just £4.19 and our Backpacker policies range from just .29p per day! For families, or those planning to take more than one trip in a year, the Annual Multi-trip policy is usually the best value. Considering the amount of money you are likely to spend for a round of drinks or snacks at the airport while waiting for your flight, there really is no excuse for not insuring your trip! (Think about it…)
We heavily promote and enourage our customers to visit the Foreign and Commonwealth website for travel advice, as well as their country advice – as part of their ‘Know Before You Go campaign’. The informed traveller is obviously less likely to innocently break laws and get into difficult situations abroad, which translates, of course, to fewer travel insurance claims and the premiums staying lower for everyone!
Travel insurance may be offered or provided along with bank accounts or credit cards, or by various businesses. These policies may be adequate for your needs, but beware of anything that is free or seems too cheap… You get what you pay for! The chances are that the benefits of the insurance have been cut somewhere – perhaps with a higher excess (the amount of a claim that you pay) or a lower amount of medical insurance. The insurance may not cover pre-existing medical conditions at all or only on a limited basis.
Travel insurance can be purchased in a variety of ways to suit everyone, from single trip, to annual multiple trip, with or without ski insurance and with optional added cover for extras such as golf and business equipment.
The smart way to buy insurance is not just by the cost, but by finding an established and reliable company that provides the cover you need for the best price. To obtain your quote click here.
The Foreign Office has reported that check-in staff and baggage handlers at airports in Portugal plan to strike over New Year. (Note: The strike planned for 22-24 December has been called off, thank goodness). The planned dates are:
From 9pm on 28 December until 3 am on 30 December 2010
Contact your airline or travel company for updates and advice If the strikes go ahead and you have travel plans that may be affected.
Visit our Travel Guide to Portugal and follow the link for the Foreign Office (FCO) for updates on the strike, as well as important travel information and advice.
We hate to even mention it… However, judging by various reports floating about on the internet, it appears that UK rail passengers could face travel challenges over the Christmas period. There are rumours and reports of more strikes involving the London Underground, along with London Midland, and Aviva – Wales.
23 December: London Midland train services from London to Liverpool, and Shrewsbury to Bedford may be affected due to a walkout by drivers.
26 December: London Underground (Tube) workers plan to strike on Boxing Day.
(If you have a ski holiday planned, plans to travel with Eurostar, or flights to catch, it would be smart to have Plan B ready and allow extra time to reach destinations).
According to easytravelreport.com a date has not yet been set for the Arriva Wales industrial action.
Bear in mind that any of the above could change, so check for updates or contact the appropriate travel company nearer the time – and keep your fingers crossed.
For reliable travel insurance that never goes on strike click here.
Bah, Humbug! It’s time for our annual reminder about carry on Christmas gifts and items…
It can be very easy to forget the rules when you are busy anticipating all the festivities.
Sorry… But you’d best pack that box of crackers in your checked luggage or leave them at home - or risk having them confiscated at the airport. And, no, it’s not because of the corny jokes – though many of them ought to be banned – here’s one example…
‘What did the letter say to the stamp? Stick to me and we’ll go places.’ You get the idea.
Airline rules seem to vary regarding Christmas crackers, but your main problem will be getting them through airport security. Check that they do not contain any banned items and are in the original sealed package. Homemade crackers are not permitted. Better to purchase them when you reach your destination, if possible, but if you really cannot do without your favourite brand it may be wise to call your airline and check.
In previous years signs have been posted at some airport security areas, warning that crackers in hand luggage will be confiscated and donated to children’s homes or other good causes.
Be aware that the restriction on hand luggage and liquids is still in force. If you are unsure about what is and is not allowed, check with your airline or visit the Directgov website – click here.
It may not occur to you that something like a snow globe may be banned, plus it would probably push you over your ‘liquid’ allowance in hand luggage! The rules vary from airport to airport and airline to airline, so give your items another long look before you zip up the bags.
If you are travelling to the United States the rules are likely to be tighter, so check the Transportation Security Administration (tsa.gov) website for information. If you have any items that are suspect (especially food items) then better to check out the rules first before you arrive at check-in.
Some other items that may, surprisingly, be treated as ‘liquid’ include ‘gel’ type candles, gel shoe inserts, hand/face cream/lotion, pastes (including toothpaste), syrup, jam, honey, lip gloss, mascara, soft cheese, shaving foam, and frozen fish or similar items. The rule applies to items unless they are purchased ‘airside’ (after security). Also, forget the table fireworks, party poppers, toy guns or grenades!
Don’t forget to place wrapped gifts in your checked luggage. Wrapped gifts in hand luggage are likely to cause a hold up at security if they have to be unwrapped for inspection. Also, be wary of carrying gifts wrapped by other people unless you are sure of the contents.
As always, rules can and do change so always check for the latest information. If you have any further tips please feel free to leave a comment.
Posted on
December 14th, 2010,
Jean. Filed under
Europe, Travel News,
Tomorrow, 15 December 2010, is designated as a European Day of Action.
A delegation from the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) and Belgian trade unions plan to form a belt around the European Commission HQ in the Schuman District of Brussels from 12 noon until 1pm to protest against austerity measures.
The Foreign Office (FO) warns that tomorrow’s European Day of Action could mean demonstrations outside public buildings across France – click here for more information.
The wintry weather, with snow and very cold temperatures will mean further travel disruption in France from tomorrow. Flights, roads, and rail services may be affected. Contact your travel provider or airline before setting off on your journey. Travellers and visitors are advised to check their travel plans before setting out and to leave extra time – and also to avoid rallies and demonstrations.
Protests and various trade union actions are likely in many cities throughout Europe, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Spain and the UK. Road closures in the vicinity of any protests or rallies are also likely. For information visit the ETUC website.
The forecast calls for more severe wintry weather to hit the UK by the coming weekend.
If you have yet to equip your car with basic emergency supplies there is still time. If you are stuck for stocking stuffer ideas for family and friends, consider purchasing items like booster cables, emergency blanket, folding shovel, de-icer, flashlight & radio combo, etc. as suggested in previous blog posts.
After the recent bad weather and chaos on the roads, which left many motorists stuck and stranded, often overnight, and petrol stations running out of supplies, we thought it worthwhile passing along a few more general tips and reminders:
Keep fuel tank topped up, especially before a long journey
Check all headlights, fog lights and indicators (turn signals) are working, and clear them of any snow, ice or mud before setting off
Clear snow, frost, ice or condensation from your windscreens before setting off – it is illegal to drive with your vision obscured. (Don’t forget to clear snow from the top of your car to avoid it falling and obstructing your view)
Check windscreen washer fluid and keep it topped up
Allow extra time for your travels, drive at a constant speed – and don’t take risks
Leave a safe distance between you and the car in front
Avoid heavy braking or braking suddenly as this may cause you to skid and lose control. If you do start to skid, steer into the skid
Carry your mobile phone and check that it is fully charged. Also carry a mobile charger in the car
If your car gets stuck in snow, stay with your car – or if you need to leave in an emergency, park it out of the way of the main traffic route so that it will not be an obstruction when conditions clear. Leave a contact number on the inside of the windscreen. Return to the car as soon as safe to do so
If you are stuck in snow in your car do not leave the engine running as this could lead to a build up of dangerous fumes
If you are a nervous driver, or have teenagers or family members who have little experience of driving on snowy and icy roads consider booking driving lessons, or drive out to an abandoned airfield or open area where there is ample room to practice
If you plan to drive in other countries always read up on the rules of the road and safety requirements, and check whether winter tyres are mandatory
It may be the season to be merry, but please do not drink and drive!
Among many other useful resources on the internet, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (ROSPA) has some useful tips – visit the website here.
If you plan on driving abroad read the Foreign Office advice for Driving Abroad and check the FO Country Advice for your destination, as well as information about the International Driving Permit.
Obtain a quote for UK or European Vehicle Breakdown cover here.
We’re all for anything that makes life less stressful, so, in case you didn’t know, this should be good news for travellers…
If you are flying from Heathrow you can check in for your flight at Paddington Station in London.
At present this is possible with the following twelve airlines, but Heathrow Express promises that more will be added soon:
Air Canada, Air France, American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Czech Airlines, Delta, Finnair, Iberia, Kenya Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, and United Airlines
Heathrow Express provides customers with the means to check flight information and use self-service machines at Paddington to choose their seat, check-in for their flight, and print out a ticket.
Then simply relax on the Heathrow Express and drop your bags at the airport - if you have hold luggage. Sounds great – anyone tried it?
For more information and for current discounts and offers visit the Heathrow Express website.
If you haven’t sorted out your Travel Insurance yet don’t leave it until the last minute when you are in a hurry… Why not get a convenient quote now - click here.
Flickr cc Image: marioanima (Heathrow Express at Paddington Station)
Here in Norfolk, officers at our local Constabulary (police - Organised Car Crime unit) have issued a warning to motorists not to leave vehicles unattended while waiting for them to defrost and warm up.
There are reports from all over the country of cars being stolen while left unattended with keys in the ignition and the engine running. The advice is relevant for any part of the world where the winters are harsh.
It may appear to make perfect sense to start the car and leave it to warm up while we head back indoors to finish that hot cup of tea before heading out on the roads. Let’s be honest, on those very cold and frosty days most of us are guilty of having done this. How do you imagine your explanation would be received by the police or your insurer if your car is stolen? Not only would you face incredible inconvenience and hassle, but you may also find that your car insurer refuses to cover the loss!
If your car is kept in a garage you are fortunate as, by law, the windscreen and windows of your vehicle must be clear before you set off. The police recommend covering your vehicle’s windscreen and windows overnight when it is frosty, remove any valuables, and keep the car locked.
It’s a good idea to purchase a lock de-icer (and keep it with you), and equip your car with a screen scraper and brush so that you can keep the screens and roof free of snow and ice at all times. Don’t just clear a hole to peep through – as this is illegal. Also it is a potential hazard to drive with snow piled on top of your car as it could shift and obstruct your view.
During the type of severe wintry weather we have been experiencing here in the UK lately, it is important to carry emergency survival equipment. In many instances drivers have had to spend a night in their car or truck, so keep that in mind and consider what you might need to have handy if the worst should happen.
For expert advice on winter motoring tips check the website of one of the motoring organisations, the police, or a governemnt site.
If you get into difficulty on the roads you may be too far from home to phone a friend - or use a lifeline - so why not have a 24-hour emergency number at hand to call for help. We offer UK and European Vehicle Breakdown cover that provides terrific value for your money - as well as peace of mind. For a quote click here.
Those already addicted to the thrill of skiing or boarding - the spectacular scenery and fresh mountain air - will not need us to remind them that it is a fantastic sport.
However, whether you are a complete beginner, intermediate, or seasoned expert the basic skier safety rules are always worth a seasonal reminder:
This is obviously an American video, but the ski industry developed the Skier Safety Code and all skiing professionals and ski resort management throughout the world take these basic rules very seriously.
Using good judgment and common sense is vital when engaging in winter sports. Ski resorts nowadays have a low tolerance for irresponsible behaviour and many of the new rules have become necessary because of the behaviour of some skiers and boarders.
Be aware that your speed may be clocked at some resorts, and there are mandatory helmet laws at others. There are rules regarding skiing off piste (U.S. ‘out of bounds’) and obeying posted notices and warnings – especially regarding avalanche danger. Violating the safety rules could result in a fine, having your ski pass revoked, serious injury to yourself or others, or worse.
Experienced skiers should already know these basic rules, but newcomers may not be aware. There are several versions of The Code (also known as Code of Conduct), but they are a bit like the rules of the road and all say more or less the same thing:
Always ski in control and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects
Skiers ahead have the right of way – it is your responsibility to avoid them
Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible to skiers above
When starting downhill or merging onto a trail look uphill and yield to others
Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment (ski brakes/leashes, etc)
Observe all posted signs and warnings – keep off closed trails and areas
Prior to using lifts you must have the ability to get on and off and ride safely
There are quite a few other common sense rules, such as stopping to assist if you witness an accident, and acting as a witness to the incident if needed. If possible, exchange names and addresses, just as you would with a road accident.
It isimportant to adjust your skiing and boarding to account for changing snow conditions, weather conditions, crowded slopes, or challenging terrain. Always be conscious of the fact that there may be fallen or injured skiers ahead and out of view- and they may not be able to get out of your way.
It is a good idea for all skiers, and especially those new to the sport, to tone up the ski muscles and get fit well before a trip - and take some lessons at a dry slope if possible. There are loads of videos and books available (and posted on YouTube) regarding skiing technique that may be helpful in understand the theory.
Just as you should not drink and drive, it is not a good idea to drink and ski. Your Ski Insurance claim may be invalidated if intoxication (from any substance) is found to have been a factor in any accident!
Needless to say, if you violate the rules and act irresponsibly and the result is an accident or injury, to yourself or others, you may find that your ski insurance will not cover the costs! Always check your ski insurance policy for the terms and conditions regarding skiing and snowboarding as they can vary from company to company – especially regarding skiing off piste, heliskiing, or other potentially hazardous activities. Also check that the insurance includes things like adequate medical cover, mountain rescue, and emergency medical repatriation.
Be aware that the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not cover anything much other than emergency medical care in a state-run facility. It does not pay for many potentially crippling expenses such as ongoing treatment, medical repatriation (by air ambulance if needed), personal liability claims, legal expenses, lost equipment, etc. At many resorts you will be required to pay for mountain rescue, including helicopter. and ambulance services. In some resorts they are considering making it a criminal offense to trigger an avalanche!
Your Consulate does not pick up any of these costs – and if you do not have insurance, or adequate insurance, it will be up to you – or your family – to pay up!
The responsibility is on you – and you ski or snowboard at your own risk. Your ski insurance should cover most mishaps – as long as you are skiing responsibly – so enjoy safe skiing and please don’t take chances and risk ruining your trip!
Ski safely, have fun - and for a sensible Ski Insurance quote click here.
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