The Case for Travel Insurance

Vacation planning is a time of inspiration, anticipation and excitement. While you are picturing yourself lazing in the warm Caribbean sun, drink in hand, it can be difficult to think about all of the possible pitfalls that can derail even the best laid travel plans. However, family emergencies, illness and professional obligations frequently result in changes to travel plans. While these situations are unfortunate and unexpected, they are not always refundable. Every resort, airline and tour operator has specific rules regarding cancellations, and fully understanding them is a critical part of responsible travel planning. Deposits, non-refundable fares and pre-paid hotel rates are common in the travel industry, but exceptions to the rules are not. The only way travelers can confidently protect their travel investment is by purchasing a comprehensive travel insurance policy.

There are many types of travel insurance, and it is important to understand what a policy covers. Simply checking the box to purchase insurance on an airline website may not be enough. A comprehensive trip cancellation policy is a must if you want to be able to recoup your travel investment if plans change.*

Other types of travel insurance include trip interruption, applicable in the event that travel plans are cut short; medical insurance for use when your policy is not valid outside of your home country; and medevac insurance which helps when a medical emergency requires evacuation from the destination where you are vacationing. When you choose a plan with 24/7 assistance, you will have access to a knowledgeable lifeline while you are away from home. Since many of our guests visit Aruba in the winter months, it is good to know that travel insurance can also be helpful if your travel itinerary is disrupted because of inclement weather that delays your flight or causes missed connections.

We have discussed this topic in the past and are re-visiting it as we prepare for upcoming adjustments to our reservation policy. As of December 23, 2016, Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort will require pre-payment 30 days prior to arrival. We are unable to make exceptions to this policy, and urge you to explore your options for protecting your investment.

On sites like TripInsurance.com, you can compare travel insurance policies to select the option that is best for you. Travel insurance costs a fraction of your overall trip price (typically less than 10 percent) and is worth exponentially more in peace of mind.

Life is unpredictable, but unexpected situations are decidedly less stressful when you are prepared. We want your trip to Aruba to be as enjoyable as possible – from the planning process until you return home – and travel insurance can be indispensable if things go awry.

*Note that the reason for your cancellation must fall within your insurer’s list of covered reasons, which commonly include sickness, injury or death of you, a family member or a traveling companion; job loss; and damages to your destination caused to a hurricane that make your trip impossible to complete, among others.