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The Travel Insurance Challenge: How Safe Are You?

26 February, 2016 | Travel Insurance

Going to places you've never been to before produces a different kind of thrill but you never know how safe you are unless you take the time to assess the risks.

If you're an avid traveller, discovering whole new sights and sounds and immersing in a way of life that's beyond your imagination can give you experiences that are truly worth it. Don't get too lost in the adventure, though, and always remember that travelling has untold risks you should be wary of. Take note of these risks before departing:

1. Weather and Natural Disasters

When mother nature decides to play, no one can stop her. There's no weapon against the forces of nature except preparation, resourcefulness and quick thinking. If you have no prior knowledge of administering first aid (because you never had the opportunity to train with Red Cross), then at least have the initiative to bring a first aid kit with you in the remote instance a calamity strikes.

Check the weather a week or so before your scheduled arrival. News reports of weather disturbances, incoming thunderstorms or a likely heatwave would surely warn you way ahead of time. Unless you're not keeping up with the news, there's no reason for you not to know the kind of weather you'll encounter when you get to your destination. If you fail to cancel your trip days on time even though there was sufficient media warning of an impending natural disaster, your travel insurance may not accommodate your claim. If you had enough time to be informed but chose to cancel only after you reached your destination, then there is no guarantee that you will be reimbursed for your non-refundable expenses. Therefore, be vigilant and keep track of the news prior to your arrival.

2. Existing Cultural and Political Situation

Bad weather and natural calamities aren't the only risk factors you need to watch out for before departing. In fact, as much as possible, you should do your research before choosing any particular destination to spare you from the hassle of cancelling or postponing a trip.

Choose a destination that's relatively peaceful. Meaning, it's not beset with cultural and political upheavals. You don't want to get caught in the middle of an ethnic conflict or a terrorist propaganda. It's also impossible to enjoy a place where citizens hold demonstrations or violently clash with the military every now and then. There have been so many instances of tourists getting caught in the cross fire.

If your travel insurance company finds evidence that you did not make an effort to avoid the unavoidable, your claim may not hold water and you will have to find other ways to recover your losses. News reports provide more than enough heads-up. Of course, should cultural and political upheavals erupt just as you arrive, then travel medical insurance or trip cancellation claims may be given credit as long as there is irrefutable evidence.

Get the situation and facts straight before you travel so you won't have to worry whether you'll be covered for your losses. Travel safely and be a wise traveller!

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