In light of recent events around the globe, it is understandable that many Britons are now thinking twice about where they choose to holiday this year. Many popular destinations have been targets of terrorist attacks and in other parts of Europe, it’s a broken economy which is the greatest risk.
In such unforeseen circumstances, it’s essential to check the advice given from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office about where is safe to travel. Additionally, you should check the small print on your travel insurance and keep in mind that many insurers are unlikely to pay out if you don’t follow the advice from the FCO.
On 29th June 2015, tourists on the beach in Tunisia were the victims of a terror attack carried out by a man on behalf of ISIS. He opened fire at a busy resort, killing 38 people and wounding many others. Months earlier another attack was carried out in a museum, which also killed many foreigners – incidents like these are changing the way we decide on a holiday destination and also the level of cover required when purchasing travel insurance.
Meanwhile in Greece, the economy is a catastrophe, banks are shut and it is feared the debt crisis will worsen over the summer. It isn’t yet clear whether this will affect Brits who have already booked to travel to the popular destination. However, experts are urging people booking holidays in Greece to ensure their insurance covers supplier failure, civil unrest and abandonment of a trip. Many cheaper policies will only provide basic cover which is not suitable when travelling to a destination of economic uncertainty.
However, what happens when you need to travel to a country which is deemed unsafe, or don’t want to cancel your much anticipated holiday which is now a no-go area? Political strife and terrorism aren’t the only factors considered when the government gives foreign travel advice – Nepal is still classed as unsafe following devastating earthquakes earlier in the year. Parts of Kenya are also off limits, while other areas have been decided as safe to travel to.
Straying into the wrong area can invalidate your entire travel insurance policy instantly. However, if you do choose to travel to destinations experiencing unrest or claimed unsafe by the FCO, you may be able to find high risk cover. Some policies will cover medical emergencies in these areas, however it will be at a much higher premium. Compare travel insurance policies today and don’t forget to compare the small print and ensure it’s suitable for your destination.