|
|
Travel
insurance was first introduced to us back in the early days of
cheap air travel when we all went abroad on package tours and
independent travel was the preserve of only the very wealthy.
Most policies were sold by the travel agents who gained a
hefty commission and regulation was very light so many policies
were a little less than perfect but nevertheless they stopped
many a holiday problem developing into a complete disaster.
The potential for disaster for the uninsured is still there. A
sudden medical emergency on a cruise ship can mean an
astronomic bill for an emergency diversion to the nearest
port, or even a helicopter rescue, and even if you're safely
on dry land the cost of treatment in the USA or Canada could
bring tears to the eyes of a Russian oligarch. Free medical
treatment in the EEC, you hear? Some of it may be but not all
and what still has to be paid for is extra accommodation for other
travellers who stay with the patient, extra flights back home
(no you can't just swop your booked flight for a later one!),
possibly an air ambulance ...... and we haven't even touched
on the costs involved when your suitcases end up flying to a
different continent to the one you're holidaying in or the
local pickpockets, bag snatchers or conmen decide that it's
your turn to pay for the next party.
The good news is; the insurance industry is heavily regulated,
and many new insurers have come along and become established
so competition is intense. Specialist companies will cover
people over 70 and sometimes up to 85 (over 85 is still
available but harder to find) and if you want to go skiing,
white water rafting, sky diving or (heaven forbid) bungee
jumping there are companies that will include these too,
either as part of their standard terms or for an extra
premium. Options also include annual, multi trip, group and
family cover, policies for students and backpackers, medical
cover for pre-existing conditions, long term and 'gap year'
insurance - the list goes on. And -
most companies will give you a substantial discount for buying
online!
|
