When Bad Things Happen To Good Vacations

As you have no doubt heard, and possibly experienced for yourself, the pace of travel right now is frenetic! The crowded airports, the long lines and short tempers; under-staffed airlines, tour operators, transportation companies; and the overwhelming disappointment that have befallen travelers trying to get to a long-awaited quick getaway - so quick that in the blink of an eye it's over before they've been able to become un-stranded in the airport.

Which brings me to my topic, one that I've written about before here AND here (you can't get enough, I know). It bears repeating because I don't expect you to remember everything I tell you. I am happy to harp, I mean remind you as often as I have to. And of course, I have new readers and clients-to-be who have so far been spared the lecture/information I am about to share; this is for you too.

No matter how extravagant or low-budget your trip may be, there are many things totally outside of your control that could change your dream vacation into a nightmare faster than you can say "6-hour delay". Even I can be counted amongst those who once believed that nothing could keep me from going on my trip, so why add the cost for the "I'll never need it" entity known as 'travel insurance'. But if it ever happens that you need it and don't have it...it's an expensive lesson.

I know you've heard stories: a fellow passenger removed from the cruise ship having a heart attack and needing surgery in a foreign country; a broken ankle while ziplining in Costa Rica and just like that, the vacation is interrupted or canceled, and there are unexpected medical expenses not covered by an employer's insurance (or Medicare); lost luggage never to be recovered; a missed or delayed flight connection that results in lost days of a hotel stay or cruise, missed excursions, added flight costs and paying for meals that should have been included at the destination. It's too late for the folks on the Titanic, but it's not too late for you.

I could go on, but you don't need me to. Travel mishaps are extremely stressful, and could be financially devastating if you don’t have adequate travel insurance. The peace of mind is worth the cost of the pennies on the dollar you pay for travel insurance. Travel ain't cheap! There, I said it.

The REAL value of this information - sharing it with your friends and family who either travel without the benefit of an advisor (ahem! I'm a phone call away), or who are completely unaware there is even a way to protect their investment. Please help me to enlighten them - they walk among us.

‘til next week...

Did you miss any of my articles? They are all here.