Tips on International Medical Insurance for tralvelers

Schengen Visa Medical Insurance Requirements

November 28, 2013 by Mrithyu

What is the Schengen Visa?

A Schengen visa is a visa issued under the terms of the Schengen treaty.

The Area is named after the village of Schengen in Luxembourg where the Schengen Agreement was signed in June 1985. There have been several modifications to the original treaty with more countries joining the area. At present there are 26 countries in the Schengen Area. The countries in the Area have abolished internal border controls and have adopted a common visa policy.

Part of the Schengen treaty covers co-operation between the police in the treaty nations and also a computer system whereby your passport is checked against a database of offenders wanted in the Schengen zone when you enter the zone.

Where should one apply for Schengen Visa?

The following are the main guidelines for applying for Schengen Visa

If you intend to visit only one particular Schengen country, you must apply at the Embassy of that particular country.
If you intend to visit several Schengen countries, you must apply at the Embassy of your main destination.
If you intend to visit several Schengen countries, but you do not have a main destination, you should apply at the Embassy of your first port of entry.
What are the requirements while applying for the Schengen Visa?
- 2 application forms (completely filled in) with photograph.
- valid passport (validity must extend until at least 3 months after the end of the planned journey).
- copy of itinerary with confirmed reservation, airline ticket to be presented prior to issuance of visa.
- proof of sufficient means of support e.g. bank statements, proof of income or an invitation letter and sponsorship declaration from your relatives / friends in a Schengen country.
- Letter from your company giving details about your business trip.
- proof of health insurance cover for your stay in the Schengen area to be presented prior to issuance of visa.
- visa fees (please contact the Embassy or Consulate where the application is to be lodged).
- Minors traveling by themselves or with only one custodian need to contact the respective Embassy or Consulate for further requirements.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Getting a Schengen Visa with an Indian Passport: Everything You Need to Know

October 8, 2018 by Mrithyu

Did you know that more than 10 million Indian nationals travel to Europe every year? That number is expected to grow to around 15 million by 2020. With the high number of Indians spending their vacations in Europe, is it any wonder why getting a Schengen visa is a hot topic right now?

schengen visa

What is Schengen?

More than two dozen countries agreed to open their internal borders and let both people and goods pass through without the need for passports, visas, and other controls. Most of these countries are part of the European Union, but there are also non-EU member countries on the Schengen list.

In the Schengen area, you will no longer have to worry about passport checks and border control. The Schengen zone includes these member countries:

Austria
Belgium
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Italy
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland

Things You Should Know About the Schengen Visa

Getting a Schengen visa allows you to hop from one member country to another without showing your passport and other travel documents to anybody. What are the things that you should know about the Schengen visa?

1. Why get a Schengen visa?

Indian passport holders would need to secure a Schengen visa to travel to the countries listed above. Business travelers and people who frequently tour Europe will benefit most from having a Schengen visa.

2. How long does it take to process a Schengen visa?

Schengen visa applications usually take 15 days to process, but it can take up to 30 days if any issue arises. There are priority processes that expedite Schengen visa applications. To give you an idea, Indian passport holders currently have the option to get priority visas to the United Kingdom by paying an extra INR20,000 ($275.82, directly converted) to expedite the processing to less than a week.

Those in a hurry can pay an additional INR90,000 (around $1,241, directly converted) to get “super priority” visas, which they can get in less than a day. You can expect Schengen priority visas to be more expensive than a UK priority visa.

3. When should you apply for a Schengen visa?

You would need around 15 to 30 days to process a Schengen visa. You can apply for one at least 15 days before your trip, but that is cutting it too close. By law, you can start applying only within three months of your scheduled departure and not before.

Top Demand from India

Did you know that in 2017, India placed fourth in the list of countries with the most number of applications for a Schengen visa? That is how high the demand for such visa is in the country.

For those who are applying for one, you might want to know that France granted the most number of Schengen visas to Indian passport holders. In 2017, France approved 179,749 Schengen uniform visas out of more than 201,000 applications from India. What’s more, France received around 3.7 million Schengen visa applications from around the world, rejecting only 13.6%.

When it comes to approval rates, however, Germany approved the highest percentage of Schengen visa applications that its consulates received from Indian passport holders, followed by the Netherlands.

To give you an idea of how many people from India have applied for a Schengen visa and which consulates have higher approval rates, here is a comparison table showing the number of Schengen visa applications received and approved by selected countries:

Country	Approved applications	Applications received	Approval rates
France	179,749	201,161	89.36%
Germany	143,456	153,961	93.18%
Italy	78,685	88,502	88.91%
Netherlands	64,816	69,897	92.73%

On the other end of the spectrum, these countries had the highest visa refusal rates (not just Schengen visas) for Indian citizens:

Estonia: 31.8%
Lithuania: 27.1%
Latvia: 27.0%
Poland: 20.2%
Malta: 16.90%

How Can You Get a Schengen Visa with an Indian Passport?

It is no secret that applying for a Schengen visa on your own and without the help of travel agencies can be quite a headache. However, if you want to try, you should plan your trip three to four months ahead, selecting your itinerary of European cities and countries you want to visit. Book your air tickets, hotels, bus tickets, and other stuff that you can book. It would be better if you also got travel insurance.

Then comes the hard part: getting all the required documents together. What are the documents and other requirements that you need to prepare? You would need a valid passport that has been issued within the last 10 years and would be valid for three months after your expected return date. It should also have two empty pages for the visa sticker and immigration stamps you would have for your trip. You should also include two passport photos that are not older than six months.

Part of the documentation that you would need to present would be a copy of your bookings and travel insurance. If you are staying with friends or relatives, you would need to show your invitation letter as well as a copy of their passport and their valid residence permit. These are very vital if you do not want your application rejected.

All You Need to Know about Schengen Visa for Indians

May 10, 2018 by Mrithyu

Today, Europe remains a premier destination for Indians to visit. As a result, there’s been an increased demand for Schengen visa for Indian passport holders in recent years. According to statistics from the Internal Migration & Affairs of the European Commission, Indians submitted over 700,000 applications for these visas in 2015.

schengen visa insurance

A Schengen visa is a unique type of visa that enables travellers to enter through one country and travel freely within 26 European countries without having to produce their passport at every border crossing.

India is one of Europe’s most significant tourist markets, with over 10 million travelling to Europe annually. This number is expected to increase to 15 million in 2020. Given the huge number of tourists that visits Europe, various queries have risen among Indians concerning this visa and its application. Here’s what you need to know about it.

Application Requirements

When applying for a visa to travel to one or more of the member states, you need to understand the requirements as well as the application process. If you’re planning to travel, it’s advisable you apply through the consulate or embassy of the nation you’ll be staying at the most.

During your visa application, keep in mind that you need to issue the required documents personally once you’ve scheduled an appointment at the consulate or embassy. It’s always advisable to schedule the appointment at least 15 days before your departure since that’s the approximated time required for the procedure taking place in the corresponding institution.

Each Schengen nation has more or less similar requirements in issuing visas to the concerned party. However, slight differences exist here and there, depending on the embassy or consulate on the needed documents besides the major identification papers and your current financial status. Some of the documents you can expect to present include:

A signed and completed Visa Application Form
You should provide an attached photo, which should have a passport format, a light background, and a full-face capture. It should also be recent.
The passport together with the copies of your former visas, valid for at least three months before your departure is necessary. The passport should have at least 2 blank pages.
Verification of accommodation for the entire duration of the planned stay in the Schengen area
You must demonstrate proof of adequate means of subsistence throughout the planned stay in the Schengen area. Bear in mind that this differs across countries.
You must secure travel health insurance, covering any health emergency with hospital care. The policy should cover expenses up to €30,000; the sum depends on the residing days and it should be valid in every Schengen country. You must purchase the policy before collecting the visa and in the event that you face visa rejection, you can cancel it.

For a minor, you require these extra documents:

The birth certificate
Both parents need to sign the application form
In situations where one parent has complete custody, you need to attach the family court order
Certified copies of passport/ID of both parents
A notarized authorization signed by either guardians or parents if the minor is to travel alone

Types of Schengen Visas

The three kinds of visas accessible to travellers worldwide are:

Uniform Visas

This kind permits the holder to reside in or transit through a Schengen area for a maximum of 90 days within a six-month period from the entry date. Depending on the travel purpose, you can obtain the visa for transiting through the airport of a Schengen nation without entering the nation or for residing within the Schengen area for a certain period depending on the visa’s validity.

Limited Visas

This visa enables the visa holder to visit and enter a particular country in the Schengen Zone. The visa holder can’t enter a different area that isn’t specified.

National Visas

These visas are for professionals and students who have to live in a Schengen nation for a particular period. They can be acquired under multiple and single-entry schemes.

Insurance for Schengen Visa

Schengen visa insurance is compulsory for most non-U.S. citizens travelling to Schengen nations in Europe. It’s also necessary for U.S. citizens travelling for more than 90 days to Schengen areas. This policy typically covers:

Emergency health expenses

This benefit is mandatory for this policy. In the event that you get sick or sustain an injury while on a trip, this benefit would cover eligible health costs.

Trip interruption

This benefit is applicable in the event that you need to return home earlier than you’d intended because of covered reasons such as the demise of a close relative.

Some of the insurance plans you should consider when travelling to a Schengen area include:

Patriot Plan

If you’re looking for a plan that meets Schengen requirements, the Patriot Plan is one of them. The insurance provider offers Patriot International, a plan that offers coverage for persons travelling outside their home nation whose destination doesn’t include the U.S. or its territories. The plan is accessible for groups, individuals, and families for 5 days minimum up to a maximum of two years. Furthermore, it has a complete package of global benefits.

Atlas Plan

Atlas Travel offers coverage for unforeseen medical costs and benefits of emergency travel such as emergency health evacuation as well as kidnap and ransom circumstances abroad. Some of the benefits you can expect under this coverage include outpatient treatment and hospitalization as well as an emergency reunion.

If you’re planning to travel to a Schengen country, it’s imperative you familiarize yourself with the requirements so you can plan accordingly. Hope the guide above gives you a head start on your Schengen trip planning.

Filed Under: Schengen Visa Tagged With: Europe travel, indians, Schengen visa, schengen visa insurance, Visa Application Form

Whole Life Insurance: Pros and Cons

August 11, 2017 by Mrithyu

Whole life insurance can often be a beneficial option for a young, affluent couple in their thirties who have children. This is a good choice in many cases because of the benefits one can gain from taking out a whole life insurance policy. Unfortunately, though, whole life insurance also has some drawbacks, and as such, it is important to understand the pros and the cons of this option.

whole life insurance

What Is Whole Life Insurance?

People who don’t have children or dependents and who are young and single often don’t need life insurance at all yet. After all, the reason to get life insurance is to make sure your dependents will be taken care of in the event of your death. However, everyone is different, and life insurance can sometimes be necessary in this case, depending on an individual’s specific needs. For example, someone who has had their parents co-sign on their student loans may need life insurance, even if they do not have a family of their own.

Whole life insurance is a policy that pays a benefit upon the death of the insured individual, much like most other types of insurance. This particular option, though, also accumulates a cash value that the insured and their family can access while they are still alive.

The Pros of Whole Life Insurance

Naturally, one of the biggest pros is being able to access the cash value of the insurance policy while the insured is still living. Many people use this option to help them save for their retirement, or they might decide to periodically take out loans against the amount. This is a great option that most other types of insurance policies don’t offer.

Some of the other pros of getting whole life insurance are as follows:

The premiums for your insurance policy are fixed.
- If you decide to take out term life insurance, you pay the premium for a specific amount of time, usually a few decades. However, the premium will often change over time. Whole life insurance is a type of permanent insurance, which means the premiums are fixed and will not change over time.
You get the money you were promised, even if you stop paying your premiums.
- If you have been paying your premiums for the agreed upon amount of time, you will receive your cash value even if you stop paying them. This is an important thing to remember, as it will help you stay on track with your payments when you know a reward is awaiting you.
The money is tax-deferred.
- The cash value you receive with a whole life insurance policy is tax-deferred, meaning you can pay the applicable taxes at a later date.
You have a guaranteed investment return.
- When you choose to play the stock market or do something else with your money that doesn’t guarantee a return, there’s always a possibility that you could lose it. With whole life insurance, you know you will receive some kind of return.

The Cons of Whole Life Insurance

Unfortunately, just like with every other type of policy, there are drawbacks associated with whole life insurance. For one, it is usually a more beneficial option for those who already have money. Some of the other cons include:

The returns of your investment are not high.
- Though you will receive a guaranteed return, these returns are usually mediocre at best.
Premiums are expensive.
- Though premiums for a whole life insurance policy are fixed, they are usually rather high, sometimes 10 times as high as those associated with term insurance policies. This is one reason why only those who are already considerably affluent can often benefit from them.
The insurance agency usually charges a high commission fee.
- Because you’re guaranteed to receive some sort of investment return, insurance agents usually charge higher commission fees on whole life insurance policies, meaning a large amount of your money will go to them.

In addition, understanding the nuances of a whole life insurance policy can be difficult. Because these policies are so complicated, many insurance agents may attempt to talk their customers into buying them. It is important to do a lot of research if you are considering getting a whole life insurance policy of your own.

Filed Under: Life Insurance Tagged With: guaranteed investment plan, insurance policy, insurance premium, life insurance, whole life insurance

Know the Difference Between Adjustment of Status and Immigrant Visa

July 31, 2017 by Mrithyu

Obtaining an immigrant visa or an adjustment of status are the two ways one can get a green card in the United States. Both of these processes can take a while and require a lot of effort on the part of the immigrating individual, but they can each be appropriate in their own ways for different people in different situations.

immigrant

What Is Adjustment of Status?

According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, adjustment of status is the process by which an individual can apply for a lawful and permanent residence in the United States if they are already present in the country. Through this process, an individual can apply for a green card and will not have to return to their home country in order to legally obtain it. Everything can be done from inside the United States.

The steps for an adjustment of status are as follows:

Step One: Determine if you are eligible for a green card.
Step Two: File an immigrant petition.
Step Three: Check visa availability.
Step Four: File form I-485.
Step Five: Go to your application support center appointment.
Step Six: Go to your interview.
Step Seven: Respond to any requests for any additional evidence.
Step Eight: Check your case status.
Step Nine: Receive a decision.

What Is an Immigrant Visa?

Also known as consular processing, the process of getting an immigrant visa is the way in which you can obtain legal status to reside in the United States from outside the country. According to the USCIS, you must first become the beneficiary of an approved immigrant petition, and you must obtain an immigrant visa number, which will occur immediately afterward. Then, you may apply for an immigrant visa and go through consular processing.

The steps for consular processing are as follows:

Step One: Determine your basis to immigrate.
Step Two: File the immigrant petition.
Step Three: Wait for a decision on your petition.
Step Four: Wait for notification from the National Visa Center.
Step Five: Go to your appointment.
Step Six: Notify the National Visa Center of any changes.
Step Seven: Receive your Visa Packet.
Step Eight: Pay your USCIS immigration fee.
Step Nine: Arrive in the United States.
Step Ten: Give your Visa Packet to the boarder protection officer at your port of entry.
Step Ten: Be admitted.
Step Eleven: Receive your green card.

What Are the Main Differences Between Adjustment of Status and an Immigrant Visa?

The biggest difference between these two processes is that the first can be carried out by someone who is already inside the United States and wants to obtain a green card. The second is specifically for individuals who are outside the United States and want to obtain a green card so they can come to the country. Both are legal means of obtaining the status necessary to legally live and work in the United States.

Those who are already in the United States may not want to leave the country in order to gain the necessary information and status to legally live here. As such, they can apply for an adjustment of status that requires them to do everything necessary to receive a green card (receive a health examination, go through the interview process, etc.) while still in the country. For an individual who is outside the United States, the only way they can legally immigrate is through consular processing, according to the American Immigration Center.

Some individuals may also need to wait for their immigrant petitions to be approved in order to apply for their adjustment of status. Those who have relatives who are United States citizens, however, and who have immediately available visa numbers can sometimes ask their relatives to file their immigrant petitions and their applications for adjustment of status at the same time.

Which Is Right for Me?

If you are already in the United States and you want to receive your green card, you can do so legally through the adjustment of status process. However, if you are not currently in the United States, the only way you can legally enter is through consular processing or applying for an immigrant visa. These are the two choices, and the one that is best for you is most easily based on whether or not you are currently in the country.

Of course, there are many more specifics associated with each process, but based on your current living situation, you can pick the one that best suits you.

Filed Under: Schengen Visa Tagged With: adjustment of status, green card, immigrant visa, US Citizenship, USCIS

Trip Insurance: What Is the Difference Between Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, and Trip Delay?

June 15, 2017 by Mrithyu

No one wants to have to imagine a trip that they have been planning for months—possibly even years—will somehow be derailed or delayed, but especially if you are spending a lot of money on nonrefundable plane tickets, hotel accommodations, and other necessities, you may want to choose some sort of trip insurance package in case things do go wrong.

Trip Insurance

Trip cancellation, trip interruption, and trip delay are all different types of trip insurance benefits you can obtain when you are getting ready to travel somewhere special.

Trip cancellation is insurance that will cover you in the event that you have to cancel your trip before you depart.
- The reasons behind a trip cancellation are usually major ones like a death in the family or the death of a traveler, a car accident or hospitalization, a fire at home, etc.
- Trip cancellation insurance does not usually cover those who suddenly decide to cancel their trips without a serious reason, although cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage can sometimes be obtained for a higher price.
Trip interruption insurance covers the nonrefundable portions of the remainder of your trip if you suddenly cannot finish it for some reason.
- This benefit covers your travel type of insurance covers your travel arrangements in the event that something goes wrong during your trip (i.e. you lose your tickets, there is an illness, there is a strike, etc.) and will usually allow you to either resume your trip or return home, depending on what is necessary.
Trip delay insurance covers your meals and hotel accommodations if your trip is suddenly delayed for reasons beyond your control. In most cases, this includes bad weather that will ground a flight or another type of issue.
- Because airlines do not have to provide accommodations for those whose flights have been grounded, getting trip delay insurance could help you avoid having to stay at the airport overnight and can allow you to afford to stick around in the area until you are able to fly out.

All of these benefits come along with the advantage of saving money. When something goes wrong before or during your trip, you can be rest assured that you won’t end up having to pay for accommodations, reservations, or anything else that you won’t be able to take advantage of because of your situation.

As much as you don’t want to think about something bad happening on your trip, it’s important to prepare for the worst. You never know what could happen, and being able to protect your financial investment can give you some peace of mind if you do end up dealing with illness, bad weather, or technical difficulties. Peace of mind is extremely valuable.

Which of These Is Best for My Trip? The Best Insurance for Your Trip

It is important to talk to someone who understands the process of getting trip insurance and can, therefore, help you make a decision on which option is best for you. If, for example, you are flying, trip delay insurance may be an important purchase, or if you are worried you won’t even make it on the trip to begin with, trip cancellation insurance could be necessary too.

Most booking companies offer trip insurance, so that can be the first place you look for information. You can also reach out to private insurance companies for help.

If you decide to choose a policy without speaking to someone (for instance a policy online), be sure to read the fine print before investing in the insurance. Look for words such as emergency evacuation, exclusions, and AD&D, and ask questions if you do not understand the information provided. Some insurance policies won’t cover certain situations, so you want to make sure that you are covered if something were to happen. You can browse the United States government travel site for alerts and warning for the places you are going to find information. Sometimes, the best way to know if you’ll be protected is to ask the insurance company if a particular situation should occur if the policy would cover you, and how it would.

This is why finding the right travel insurance, not just whatever is offered, is extremely important to making sure your trip is exactly what you want it to be: safe, fun, and covered in the event of any foreseen and unforeseen issues.

Filed Under: Europe Travel, faq Tagged With: Trip Cancellation, Trip Delay, Trip Insurance, Trip Interruption

What is a European Health Insurance Card and Can I Use It After Brexit?

May 12, 2017 by Mrithyu

The European Health Insurance Card has long been a popular way for many people in the UK to cover the risk of traveling in Europe. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allows you the right to access healthcare which is provided by the state in another European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland when you are on a temporary visit to this country.

EHIC

At present, even with Brexit putting many aspects of travel and life in Europe in a state of flux, it is still possible to use the EHIC as normal. There are no current changes listed to the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) service. You can find out more below.

Where Can I Get a European Health Insurance Card?

The European Health Insurance Card is available online through the official EHIC application form. You do not have to pay to apply for this card so if a website says you do need to give money, it is likely you are not on the official site.

Who Can Apply for a European Health Insurance Card?

You can apply for an EHIC if you are a resident of the United Kingdom. If you are not an EEA national or a Swiss national and you live in the UK then you will need to look in further detail at whether you are eligible for the card. There are occasions where you are eligible for the card when you live in an EEA country or Switzerland, for example when you are working in an EEA country, or when you are studying. Each member of a family needs their own EHIC. You can apply for a card on behalf of any children under the age of 16.

What Treatment Can I Get With a European Health Insurance Card?

By using the EHIC in Europe you will be covered for all treatment that is necessary for your medical needs until you return home. You will also be covered for the treatment of pre-existing medical conditions and for the treatment of routine pregnancy conditions, so long as the purpose of your visit to the country was not as a “medical tourist” with the purpose of expressly seeking this treatment.

How Much Does My Treatment Cost?

The treatment that you receive will be the same as that received by a resident of the country you are in, and will be available at a reduced price or for free. Sometimes you will need to pay a proportion of the cost of the treatment which is provided by the state, which is called a co-payment. If you are in a country where this system operates then you will need to pay the same co-payments as a resident of that country would pay.

Is the EHIC an Alternative to Travel Insurance?

The EHIC is not seen as an alternative to travel insurance as there are a number of things the EHIC will not cover. It will not cover you for the cost of any private healthcare treatment, nor will it cover the cost of repatriating you back to your country if you are seriously injured. It will not cover any loss arising from a robbery or if you lose possessions, and it is not valid on a cruise. But seeing as the EHIC is free it is a valid addition to travel insurance.

Does Brexit Affect the Use of a European Health Insurance Card?

Since Article 50 has been triggered, there is no change in the status of the European Health Insurance Card and Brexit does not affect the rights of people in the UK to apply for the EHIC. The UK is still in the process of leaving the European Union and various negotiations need to take place in order for the process to be completed.
In the future, the availability of the EHIC will depend on whether the UK separates from the EEA, as the EHIC is not specifically an EU scheme. For example, countries like Iceland and Norway are not members of the EU but they are of the EEA and they accept the European Health Insurance Card. But if the UK exits the EEA then it is likely that the card will no longer be available to UK citizens and residents. However, even this is not clear cut as Switzerland is not currently part of the EU or the EEA and it does accept the card. Negotiations over aspects like this are part of the general process of arriving at a new state of European living for citizens of the UK.

Filed Under: Brexit, Europe Travel Tagged With: brexit, EEA, EHIC, European Health Insurance Card, european travel, health insurance

Stay Safe by Knowing Europe’s Safest and Most Dangerous Tourist Destinations

March 15, 2017 by Mrithyu

Spring Break is approaching, and summer is close behind it. For many people that means it is time to pick a location for an upcoming trip. But choosing where to travel, especially in another country, can be challenging. Crime rates differ not only from country to country, but even within specific countries. For example, one area of a country may be very dangerous with high crime rates, but you may be able to travel twenty minutes in a different direction and enjoy a very safe traveling experience. If an overseas trip is something you are considering, you will want to make sure to research to determine both the safest and most dangerous European vacation destinations.
Keep in mind that in some tourist-heavy markets, criminals focus specifically on tourists as targets. So not only is the overall rate of theft or violent crime high, but you would specifically be at a higher risk because you’re a tourist. What areas of Europe should you either avoid or be on high alert in this summer?

travelers

Different sources may identify different cities or countries as being the most dangerous, so you may want to conduct research on your own from several different sources and check out tourist message boards and other resources that provide firsthand accounts. That will give you the clearest picture of what to expect so that you can plan your trip accordingly.

WorldAtlas.com identified the 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe in a 2017 article, however many are in areas you wouldn’t typically consider vacation destinations, such as cities in the Ukraine, Lithuania, Russia, and Latvia.

But you might be surprised to know that Belfast and Glasgow also made the list! Every year many Americans travel to Ireland and Scotland for vacation, as the beautiful landscape, historical features, and attractions like famous golf courses are attractive to travelers. So while you might think of rolling green hills, you may not be thinking of potential dangers in these areas. This is a great example of why it is so important to research any foreign destination before booking travel.

Business Insider published in 2016 an article listing the 50 Most Dangerous Cities in the World. No European cities made that list, however it was strictly based on a homicides per capita number, so it did not take into account typical tourist-focused crime like thefts or muggings.

The same web site published an article later in the year taking a broader view of European crime which therefore serves as a bit better guide for tourists. Once again, many of the most dangerous cities are places like Belgrade and Kiev which you would typically not consider traveling to for vacation anyway. But Paris, Milan, Barcelona, London, and Rome all made the list.

Those cities are likely the first ones you are thinking of when you begin thinking about European travel, so you may be surprised to hear it suggested that they could be dangerous. However, you should always keep in mind that most highly-populated large cities are going to have more crime, and that criminals often tend to seek out tourist-heavy cities.

Conversely, there are many studies outlining the safest European cities. For instance, the Economist Intelligence Unit published a list of what it considered to the be the 15 safest cities in the entire world in 2016 based on a variety of factors, and 4 European cities – Zurich, Barcelona, Stockholm, and Amsterdam – made the list.
When considering the safety of European destinations, it’s unfortunately a necessity to consider the threat of terrorism. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office of Britain identified several places that are believed to have lower terrorism risks than others, including destinations that may not seem like obvious first choices, but which have some very appealing features, such as Switzerland and Iceland.

Italy and Spain have also been cited as popular safe European destinations so the key really is to research and compare information from different sources to get a complete picture as to what safety means from one report to another. Some reports may be referring to terror threats, while others are focused on targeting tourists from theft, pick-pocketing, and other crimes. The internet offers no shortage of firsthand accounts from travelers, so use the information here coupled with real travelers’ experiences to make your own perfect travel plans.

Filed Under: Europe Travel Tagged With: dangerous destination in europe, Europe travel, europe travel tips, safe destination in europe

Health Steps for Travelers to UK

November 23, 2016 by Mrithyu

Travel health requirements for visitors to the UK are not extensive, compared with other destinations in the world. When visiting the UK you do need to make sure you are in good overall health in order to make the trip and enjoy your time in the country, but the list of specific vaccinations needed to travel is not long.

travelers

However, there are still things you need to do before travelling to the United Kingdom. Take a look at the health steps you need to take when visiting this popular country as a tourist or business traveler.

Vaccinations for Visiting the UK

It is best to check with your doctor four to six weeks before you travel in order to plan what vaccines or medications you need for your travel plans and to create your own healthy packing list including your own medications and other essentials you need to take.

In the case of vaccine requirements for visiting the UK, you should be up to date on your routine vaccinations. Routine vaccinations include the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps and rubella), the diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, the vaccine for varicella (chickenpox), the polio vaccine, and the yearly flu shot. These vaccinations should be administered regardless of whether you are going to travel to the UK or elsewhere.

In the case of some travellers, other vaccines are needed. You may need a hepatitis A vaccine. There are occasional hepatitis A outbreaks in developed countries like the UK and the US, and it can be caught through contaminated water in the UK although this is rare. Ask your doctor if the vaccine is needed.

Hepatitis B is transmitted through sexual contact and contaminated blood products. If you are at high risk of this transmission you may need a vaccination against hepatitis B – check with your physician. It is most often necessary when you are having medical procedures in countries with low medical hygiene standards – the UK is not classed in this category.

Rabies is present in bats in the UK but not elsewhere. It is not a major risk and travellers are only advised to have the rabies vaccine if they are going to be working as a wildlife professional with bats, or taking part in caving or adventure travel in remote locations. Even then, the vaccine is not often recommended.

Medical Care in the UK

Access to medical care in the UK is not free if you are not a UK or European citizen. Access to immediate first aid or emergency treatment is free but it begins to be charged after the emergency period is over. Most non-European visitors to the UK need travel medical insurance, which will cover the cost of emergency treatment as well as visits to the doctor’s office, prescription medication, and hospital stays.

Many travel health insurance policies also include repatriation cover and the medical insurance can be linked with baggage insurance and other travel essentials.

Health Concerns in the UK

Mostly, there are few health concerns which apply to overseas visitors to the UK. The food is safe to eat and is monitored by different government agencies. You can drink the tap water but depending on the area you visit you may find it tastes of chlorine or other chemicals. Bottled water is widely available and you can boil or filter water from streams when you are walking or camping.

In terms of temperature, the UK does not see major extremes of temperature and summer is not particularly hot. However, you do still need to use sunscreen in the summer, and days can reach above 30 degrees C sometimes. In the winter the temperature will drop so it is advisable to bring warm layered clothing, good shoes, a hat and a scarf.

If you are hiking or taking part in other outdoor sport you will need to consider abrupt changes in the weather and carry the appropriate gear to be protected come rain or shine. You may need to consider protection against tick bites if you are walking in the Scottish Highlands – ticks are rare in the UK but they are known to spread Lyme disease. Wear insect repellent and tuck your trousers into your socks.

Filed Under: Europe Travel Tagged With: health, healthcare, travel insurance, travel tips

Effects of Brexit on UK-Europe Travel

September 1, 2016 by Mrithyu

In June 2016 the United Kingdom voted in a referendum to leave the European Union. You can hardly have missed the headlines about “Brexit” – Britain’s exit from the EU. The historic move stands to cause as-yet unknown consequences for finances and social policy in the UK and beyond.

Brexit-travel

But how does it affect your travel plans – what does Brexit mean for travelers ? Will it be easier or harder to travel around Europe and the UK? What will Brexit mean to the cost of your vacation?

What Happened?
The UK joined the EU in the beginning of the 1970s. It has not been an easy relationship since then, and after a recent spell of political pressure the UK voted to leave the organization of member states in June. Initially, global markets fell massively and many international travelers put their vacation and business travel plans on hold. What now?

While the complete effects of Brexit on financial markets and the Brexit effect on UK-Europe travel will not be known for many years, there are some things you can understand now to help make travel easier and more affordable in the UK and Europe.

Cost of Travel After Brexit
One of the main ways Brexit affects travel from US is the exchange rate between the dollar and the pound (the currency the UK still uses.) In the immediate aftermath of Brexit, the dollar was worth a lot more against the pound meaning that dollars go much further in the UK. The pound has strengthened since but it is still better value to travel to the UK from the US than the other way around – UK travelers have seen the amount of foreign currency their pound buys drop considerably.

It is too early to see how the price of vacations, flights, and travel in general will change following Brexit. Last year there were a flux of deals on Atlantic airfares that made it much cheaper to travel between the US and the UK. European travel between countries was relatively cheap with price advantages from budget European airlines like easyjet.

Will buying flights remain so affordable? Travel companies claim to be working to keep costs down, but it is worth looking widely into prices before booking a vacation or flight in the near future.

Cost of Post-Brexit Medical Care
Currently the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) enables UK citizens to access reduced-cost or free medical treatment in other countries in the EU. While the benefits of the EHIC are lower than travel medical insurance, it is an advantage for UK travelers. The agreement will be negotiated and there may be a corresponding hike in medical costs for Brits. Any travelers in Europe from abroad should have travel medical insurance, as there is no free healthcare for non-UK citizens.

End of Free Movement Around Europe?
One of the benefits of the UK being in the EU was the ease with which UK citizens could travel and work in the countries within the European Union. But with the UK’s exit from the EU comes uncertainty about the future of travel across European borders.

One possible outcome of Brexit is that the UK could stay in the EEA – the European Economic Area – and by doing this could remain signed up to the “four freedoms” of the EU where people, capital, goods, and services can move freely within the area.

The UK could also take on the Swiss model. Switzerland is part of the European Free Trade Association and this organization has more limited scope than the EEA but still permits permit-free travel around Europe.

But in the absence of any kind of membership of the EEA or the European Free Trade Association, the UK would probably see its citizens needing a visa for business or vacation travel in other European countries. This outcome seems unlikely – the most probable final outcome will be that UK citizens will not need visas for vacation purposes in Europe but they will have to go through passport control when they enter a different country.

Citizens of other countries around the world still need visas for the UK and other European countries depending on their nationality – before travel all foreign visitors to the UK and Europe must check with local embassies for their visa status and what they need to do before they travel.

Filed Under: Brexit, Europe Travel Tagged With: Europe travel, travel tips

Best Holiday Parks Across Europe 2016

May 2, 2016 by Mrithyu

Spending time with family is one of life’s greatest pleasures, especially when you can do it at a place that’s fun. Holiday parks are a good choice when looking for something to do with your family. The following are some of the best holiday parks across Europe.

Holiday Park

Pierre & Vacances Port du Crouesty Holiday Village
This is a beautiful place to stay in southern Morbihan, France. The village has apartment buildings and houses available with kids’ clubs and four pools. This is a good place for babies, toddlers, and teens. Childcare is available for adults who want some time to themselves. There’s also a multimedia center, archery, bikes, Petanque and traditional Breton games, fitness sessions, board game loans, and much more.

La Croix de Vieux Pont Campsite
This campsite in Picardy offers all of the amenities you would receive at a hotel. It’s close to Disneyland Paris and the French capital. There are four swimming pools, indoor and outdoor, and plenty of activities for the children. There is a bowling alley, laser quest, kids’ club and many planned activities. Adults can enjoy relaxing near the gorgeous lakes with sandy beaches. There are also canoes available for rent. There is a bar and two restaurants available on the property.

De Eemhof Center Parcs Europe
This Amsterdam holiday park is everything you can expect to find when looking for a fun place for your family. There are waterslides, pools, beach, water sports, sailing, and cycling. The park is surrounded by nature with a wooded setting, which makes it perfect for exploring by foot or bike. There’s zip lining and archery available as well.

The nearby Market Square has many shops for those who enjoy shopping. There are many restaurants and bars for adults who want to have a little fun of their own.

Yelloh! Village Le Serignan Plage Campsite
This holiday park is perfect for those who have young children, toddlers, and babies. They have a soft play area, indoor pool, and many options for accommodation for large families. There’s a kids club for children 4-12 years old, and on-site restaurants and a bakery. Just three miles down the road, there is a vineyard, aqua park, and horse riding. This is located in the Languedoc-Roussilon region of France.

Sunparks Kempense Meren
This park is surrounded by fields, lakes, and a beach, which is perfect for those who want to reconnect with nature. Many outdoor-based activities are available such as hiking and cycling. There’s also mini-golf, table tennis and badminton. An indoor pool and indoor play world is a hit with children. Accommodations are perfect for large families up to 8 people. When looking for a rural holiday park, this one in Belgium will offer everything you desire.

Le Clarys-Plage Campsite
This holiday park is located on the west coast of France. You will love the beautiful beaches, large swimming pool, waterslides, jets, Jacuzzi, and lazy river. There is a range of activities for all ages such as tennis, football and volleyball. With childcare options, adults can have time to relax. Kitchens are included in some of the accommodations, but you can find many restaurants a short drive away.
Pierre & Vacances Belles Rives

This is a village in Dordogne. It’s a popular choice for families looking for holiday fun. With 80 trails for backpacking and mountain biking, you will have endless chances to connect with the great outdoors. Kids can have fun crayfishing, climbing trees, and taking part in the activities organized for them. There’s also an outdoor pool for relaxing.

Al Gelso Bianco
Al Gelso Bianco is located in Tuscany, Italy. Seven apartments are available that can sleep two to eight people. There are cots available for larger families. A gated pool is available, and it’s all surrounded by a working farm, winery and agricultural estate.

La Chimenas
Las Chimenas is located in the village of Mairena in Granada, Spain. You can become one with nature by walking on the quiet paths, cool off with a swim in waterfalls, or just explore the villages surrounding the property. Children will enjoy geocaching, mountain biking, and the beaches nearby in Salobrena and Almunecar.

Casa do Canal
Casa do Canal in Algarve, Portugal is a beautiful place to visit. The beaches are the major attraction here. You have many different ones to choose from right outside your doorstep. After a long day at the beach, many visitors spend time eating at some of the restaurants serving classic Portuguese dishes. Children enjoy the surf school, organized activities, craft workshops, and cycling.

Europe has some of the best holiday parks in the world. Plan your next trip to one of these, so you can enjoy some quality time with your family.

Filed Under: Europe Travel Tagged With: Europe travel, holiday parks