Floating Down the Path to Zero Waste

By: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Some travelers start to worry when they see their favorite brands start developing “greener practices.” Maybe they suspect greenwashing, maybe an excuse to cut costs… or maybe they care deeply about sustainability, but don’t want to make sacrifices with their hard-earned vacations.

Not with Uniworld. The philosophy here is that we love being able to explore our gorgeous planet in style. Indulgence and luxury are what we do best, and we want to be able to treat our guests to just that, for generations to come. We don’t waste our time—or our travelers’ patience—on superficial changes that diminish travel experiences while doing nothing real for the environment. We work smarter, seeking out science-backed solutions.

That’s how Uniworld became the world’s first river cruise line to introduce validated targets for achieving Net Zero. We’ve looked at every avenue through which we can make real change, reducing waste related to food, energy, water, plastics and more to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050.

What we’re finding is that a lot of these changes can actually elevate the luxury travel experience. Putting refillable toiletries in our bathrooms means giving our guests a better experience than having to work with tiny plastic shampoo bottles in the shower, while also greatly reducing plastic waste. Sourcing fresh local produce for our meals means better tasting, more authentic cuisine.

One of our proudest achievements in this direction has been the implementation of our partnership with LeanPath. Uniworld began partnering with LeanPath in 2021 to install a comprehensive measuring system in our kitchens that calculates how much food is left over after each meal—and became the only river cruise company to do so. Not only can these numbers give our chefs a clear picture of how to make sure everyone has as much to eat as they desire without the kitchens throwing out excessive leftovers, but they can even give our chefs intuitive feedback on the meals they prepare.

We started our Leanpath trial with six ships in Europe, and already the results are incredible! Though 2022 was just meant to be a measuring stage, with the reductions coming after we got a clear idea of how much food waste we were creating, we found that just implementing a measuring system encourages more mindful and less wasteful kitchens. So far, we’ve eliminated over 29,000 pounds of food waste, saving approximately 100 tons of carbon from being emitted into the atmosphere. And that’s across only the six ships piloting the early stages of the Leanpath program. In 2023, Leanpath will be implemented across every ship we own. Personally, I can’t wait to see those results improve exponentially in the next few years, as I know it’ll equate to even better dining experiences for our guests and for the environment.

About Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises—the world’s most luxurious all-inclusive river cruise line— features distinctive destination-inspired ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, expertly curated excursions, gourmet cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, and impeccable service with the highest staff-to-guest-ratio in the river cruise industry. Based in Los Angeles, California, Uniworld offers truly all-inclusive itineraries in Europe, as well as voyages in Vietnam and Cambodia, India, Peru and Egypt—a total of 17 rivers in 26 countries worldwide. Uniworld is a member of CLIA and is highly regarded by discerning travelers, media, and cruise industry experts. Uniworld’s overarching sustainability strategy, ‘How We Tread Right,’ encompasses goals like reducing 50% of food waste by 2025, eliminating single-use plastics, achieving net zero by 2050 and offering guests meaningful experiences in the destinations they sail through supporting local communities. Uniworld is a member of The Travel Corporation (TTC) family of companies, which has been providing expert-led immersive travel experiences across the globe for over 100 years. (www.uniworld.com)

How to Tap Into the Culture Wherever You Go

By Kelly Gould for ALG Vacations®

If your home is a long-term relationship, then travel is the spark that keeps it going. It’s the return of the date night, the new look that reminds us we do love where we are and who’s beside us … but also that we need to do this more often.

Like any good shake-up, travel isn’t an action; it’s an experience. So, to get the most out of it, arrive at your destination—whether an hour away or an ocean away—with a curious mind. Being open to the local lifestyle will help you reflect on and appreciate your own, and, odds are, even change it for the better.

Follow these travel tips, and you’ll be tapping into the culture in no time.

*Get a taste for the culture by sampling local flavors.*

Eat like a local. If the place you’re visiting is famous for a certain dish or product, try it during your stay. Don’t limit yourself to the one restaurant that supposedly has “the best” version (the more touristy the location, the more often it’s overrated). In fact, if you really want to commit, make a tasting out of it. Sample every pastel de nata in Lisbon or gelato in Florence you come across. Do a study on how many ways you can cook an apple in New York in the fall or let a rum flight in Jamaica give you a new favorite brand. Follow where the locals lead and if a particular food pairing seems weird, just remember: Someone once thought chicken and waffles was strange, too.

*Museums let you discover not just one story but many for a deeper understanding of your destination’s history and heritage.*

Go to a museum. You can’t really know a culture until you understand its history, and a museum is the perfect place to start learning. Brush up on artists who made their name in the region (think Van Gogh in Amsterdam and Ernest Hemingway in Key West), trace impactful changes back to their roots, or discover a subculture you know nothing about.

*Be a fan of the home team for the day, whether at game or a show.*

Get on the scene. Which scene? That depends on where you’re visiting. In New Orleans, it’s jazz, but if you’re traveling to Liverpool, it’s football (or the Beatles!) for sure. Find out what draws a crowd in your destination, then join a concert, stop for a street performance, or catch a game. You don’t have to know the rules to have a good time; just enjoy it!

Be more than a tourist. Sticking to the “main” attractions is what a tourist does. Culture hounds, on the other hand, mix in lesser-known sights. Exploring beyond the tourist zone is the only way to get a genuine feel for the place and people around you.

*Learning about what’s made locally gives you a better feel for the destination—and supports the people who live there.*

Buy local. Better yet, buy directly from an artisan or small business. It could be espadrilles in Spain, handmade alebrijes in Mexico, or Kona coffee in Hawaii. Whatever your purchase, you’re supporting the local economy and bringing a little bit of the culture home.

*Nothing says conscientious traveler more than taking the time to remember a few words of local lingo.*

Learn a few phrases. If the people where you’re going speak a different language, memorize some basic words like “hello,” “thank you,” and “bathroom.” Not only is it the polite thing to do, but you’ll feel more at ease, too. When traveling to a place that favors a language you already know, see if you can pick up on regional slang or colloquialisms. (British English is full of them!)

*No matter the culture, just remember to respect it—and the place it came from!*

Be respectful. You’re a guest in someone else’s home … so act like one! Bring your patience and an open mind. If you’re nervous about making a mistake or unsure if an experience could be offensive, get the local perspective, do your homework, and talk to your travel advisor as you plan your trip. Advisors are the experts for a reason. They’ve been to the destinations you’re traveling to and can give you a heads-up on any cultural dos or don’ts, even as simple as tipping.

Find a culture that speaks to you and get out and experience it! Start planning with an ALG Vacations® travel advisor at traveladvisorsgetyouthere.com.

About the Author

An avid traveler with over 10 years of experience in the industry, sharing her love for cultures foreign and familiar alike is what fuels Kelly Gould’s passion for writing. As the Associate Manager of B2B Marketing for ALG Vacations®, she does just that for travel advisors, storytelling across mediums from blog posts to campaigns. When not traveling, she pretends she is anyway with frequent museum visits and an ever-expanding reading list.

About ALG Vacations

ALG Vacations® (ALGV) is part of Hyatt (www.hyatt.com) and managed under Apple Leisure Group® (ALG), a leading North American resort brand-management, leisure travel, and hospitality group with a unique business model serving travelers and destinations worldwide. ALGV is a collection of powerful and growing vacation brands widely recognized for providing the industry’s leading leisure travel experience across the world. ALGV was voted the ASTA Tour Operator Partner of the Year in 2020 and 2021 and was the winner of numerous 2022 awards from the leading travel trade publications. With more than three million passengers annually, ALGV features well-established vacation brands including Apple Vacations®, Funjet Vacations®, Travel Impressions®, Southwest Vacations®, Blue Sky Tours®, and United Vacations®.

Unpacking travel privilege: Why Black representation matters in travel

The travel industry needs to be more inclusive in its offerings and leadership.

By Stephanie Jones and Matt Berna

After three years of pandemic limitations, global tourism is expected to exceed 2019 levels. Along with it, there’s a rise in Black consciousness, which has created an intensified interest in supporting Black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) travel experiences and businesses, impacting how consumers research, plan, choose, and finalize details for their next destination.

Many travelers are paying close attention to whether companies are following through with promises from 2020, such as creating a more diverse and inclusive workforce at their own organizations as well partnering with more BIPOC-owned-and-operated business. Fifty four percent of Black Americans say they are more likely to visit a destination if they saw Black representation in travel advertising. But where can travelers find Black-owned travel companies? And for leading tour operators, how do we ensure greater representation of these businesses?

Unfortunately, due to underrepresentation within the industry and lack of resources, Black travel businesses need to rely on partnerships with larger brands to elevate their offerings. This is why Blacks in Travel & Tourism and the Cultural Heritage Alliance for Tourism, Inc., partnered with Intrepid Travel with a mission to level the playing field and create equitable opportunities for small Black suppliers in underrepresented U.S. communities to thrive in this industry.

THE NEED FOR DIVERSITY IN TRAVEL OFFERINGS

Black U.S. leisure travelers spent $109.4 billion in 2019. This was generated by 458.2 million traveler stays representing 13.1% of the U.S. leisure travel market. These numbers alone should signal a call to action to the travel industry for stronger BIPOC representation. It is vital for the travel industry to better diversify and expand its sphere of leadership and practice, yet only 7.1% of travel managers in the U.S. are Black.

The Harris Poll conducted a survey of 2,027 U.S. adults aged 18 and older, on behalf of Intrepid Travel. It found that 78% of women, compared with 69% of men, agree that women and other historically marginalized groups should have a voice and role in the travel companies that cater to them.

By its very nature, you would think that the travel industry would naturally be more diverse—appealing to people who seek out diversity and want to experience novel activities, discover different cultures, expand their minds to fresh ideas, and meet new people. Leadership within the travel industry needs to reflect the same diversity that travelers expect to find at their next destination.

Not only are travelers doubling down on supporting BIPOC businesses, they are taking note of those who continue to protect outdated and inaccurate information. This censorship and misinformation only stops if we collectively agree to close the inclusivity gap within the travel industry. It starts by empowering the Black community by offering partnerships and opportunities.

For travel companies, that means using an organization’s platform to give voice and business to other Black travel and tourism leaders. Building these types of partnerships allows for better travel experiences for underrepresented groups and helps to continue the necessary re-education of cultural heritage. That means researching the historical accuracy of experiences to ensure that the cultural heritage and representation shared is authentic and factual.

THE FUTURE OF TRAVEL: BIPOC WOMEN AND COMMUNITY

The current state of diversity efforts is in a game of tug of war, one where we are seeing organizations cutting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) budgets due to concerns about the current economic state, and politicians using DEI as a political tool. The need remains for more education and action if we are to make good on the company promises from three years ago.

It is essential for travel-brand CEOs and travel tour operators to lean into and firm up their commitments for diversity, equity, and inclusion to be sustained in our industry. This equates to providing more travel options for women and building intentional alliances and strategic partnerships to invest in Black travel and tourism organizations. This would bring expertise to the table to help brands become better stewards of diverse cultures and underserved communities.

The job of travel tour operators is to make sure their businesses represent the communities they serve. This means more education and training for travel companies, but it also means better representation—and that starts with travel leaders recognizing diversity weaknesses within the industry and taking action to close the gap. It also means telling/teaching the true history of America’s rich cultural heritage.

About Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel has been a world leader in responsible travel for more than 30 years. The company’s mission is to create positive change through the joy of travel, which comes to life on more than 1,150 tours, all designed to truly experience local culture. With its own network of destination management companies in 26 countries, Intrepid has unique local expertise and perspectives. Globally recognized for their commitment to transparency and ethical travel, they became the world’s largest travel company to achieve B-Corp certification in 2018. Intrepid Travel is also the first tour operator with near-term science-based climate targets through the Science Based Targets Initiative, and its not-for-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, has raised more than $13 million for more than 135 partners. For more information download the company’s 2022 Annual Report and follow Intrepid on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok or LinkedIn.

Tips for Planning Honeymoons and Destination Weddings at Sea

By Windstar Cruises

Whether it’s a honeymoon in Tahiti or exchanging vows in the Mediterranean, a cruise delivers the perfect combination of romance and adventure. Small ship cruising caters to guests seeking intimate experiences, and from candlelit dinners to lounging on private beaches, there are endless ways to make a cruise a dream trip for two – or an entire wedding party.

A cruise offers ample opportunities to relax, and there are plenty of activities for more adventurous travelers, like hiking in picturesque nature reserves, snorkeling in pristine coral reefs and scenic helicopter flights. A wide range of shore excursions allow guests to craft a dream trip around their interests, and many cruises offer enticing add-ons. For example, a number of Tahiti itineraries offer multi-night stays in overwater bungalows, which is the epitome of a romantic retreat — and very popular among newlyweds.

Beyond appealing to couples seeking a romantic retreat, a cruise is an ideal way to celebrate a destination wedding. All-inclusive pricing makes it easy to control food and beverage costs for guests, and many cruises offer packages with hotels and flights, which makes travel logistics a breeze. From floral arrangements to wedding cakes, special romance packages help guests personalize all the details, and some cruise lines even have wedding planners to help with your special day. Simpler romance packages offer welcome gifts with flowers, chocolate, champagne and spa treatments, while more comprehensive packages include ceremonies, both for vow renewals and weddings. (It should be noted that wedding vows aboard cruise ships are generally non-binding, i.e., couples should make plans to legally tie the knot before or after their cruise wedding.)

While it’s important to include key trip information on your wedding website and invitations (e.g., passport requirements, airport codes, info on ground transportation, etc.), a cruise takes most of the legwork out of the planning process. Consider reaching out to your preferred cruise lines ahead of time to get information on packages and pricing, so you can plan your dream trip — and make the most of your time with family and friends.

When it comes to dining, guests can indulge themselves with everything from breakfast in bed to champagne toasts, plus five-star dining indoors or under the stars. Menu options offer both gourmet classics and a selection of locally inspired options, like fresh seafood, regional wines and of course, decadent desserts. With an expansive deck, a pool, a hot tub and indoor lounge areas, guests will find plenty of spots on the ship to enjoy, too. Full-service spas are yet another way to pamper yourself, and you can even get your hair and nails done at an onboard salon before exchanging vows.

About Windstar Cruises

In 2023, USA Today included Windstar Cruises on their 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises list, and the previous year Porthole Magazine honored Windstar as the Most Romantic Cruise Line in their Readers’ Choice Awards. In 2022, Travel + Leisure included Windstar on their list of the 10 Best Intimate Cruise Lines, and Windstar is recognized for offering guests access to small ports and private tours across the world.

Passport Delays Causing Travel Chaos

By: Steve Diehl, Chief Corporate Development Officer – CIBT

It is the traveler’s worst nightmare; you’ve meticulously planned a trip abroad, you’re packed and ready to head to the airport, and then you realize your passport is expired. Or it is lost, or damaged, or does not have the minimum validity required to travel overseas. And suddenly, your dream vacation is gone.

A valid passport is the key to international travel. But most of us don’t think about our passports until we’re planning a trip or getting ready to leave. Unfortunately, the US Department of State, the body which oversees issuing passports in the United States, is currently dealing with unprecedented delays in processing passport applications and renewals.

The State Department website lists the current passport processing times as 10 to 13 weeks. And this figure does not take into account the time it can take for a passport or passport application to be received by the processing center, and the time it takes for the completed passport to be delivered to you. This can add one to two weeks to the total, meaning your passport application or renewal could wind up taking 12-15 weeks, or more than three months! Even processing times for the extra-cost “expedited” service can currently take seven to nine weeks, plus added time for delivery.

The root of the current backlog can be traced to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a record number of Americans hit the skies post-pandemic, demand for passport services has soared, resulting in the busiest year on record. The US State Department has acknowledged the delays and is increasing staffing levels to meet the higher demand. Unfortunately, the State Department does not expect the processing delays to ease before early 2024. Even if you have a currently valid passport, you could still find your travel plans grounded. One reason this could happen is that many countries require visitors to have at least six months of validity on their passport after their expected departure date from the country you’re visiting. That means if your passport is near its expiration date, you may have trouble visiting some destinations.

Additionally, the physical condition of your passport can also pose a problem. Passports that are excessively worn or damaged could be rejected by immigration authorities. If you have legally changed your name since your passport was issued, this can also cause problems. If your name has changed, it is best to have your passport reissued in your current legal name. For frequent international travelers, not having blank pages in your passport for the addition of a visa or border control entry stamp can also cause you to be turned away at the border.

If you’re planning to travel internationally, check your passport and look for factors like its expiration date, physical condition, and number of blank pages. If you need a new passport, or if you need to apply for one for the first time, be mindful of the current delays at the passport processing centers, and remember these delays are not expected to ease before 2024.

So, what if you need a passport sooner? One option is using a passport expediter. These are private companies, like CIBT, who work directly with the passport agencies to issue a passport much more quickly than the standard processing service, sometimes in as little as a day, and typically within three to five days. To qualify for urgent passport processing, travelers must demonstrate travel within two weeks from time of application or 30 days if traveling to a destination that requires a visa, too. Visit our website at: https://cibtvisas.com/passport-information to learn how we can get you a passport, fast!

About Steve Diehl

Steve Diehl is the Chief Corporate Development and Emerging Markets Officer for CIBT, the leading global provider of immigration, visa and document services for businesses and consumers. CIBT taps the passion and expertise of nearly 2,000 immigration and visa professionals, attorneys, and qualified migration consultants located in over 60 offices in 27 countries to empower people and organizations to live, work, travel and trade seamlessly through its global reach, local expertise, and customer-focused technology solutions.

From “What to do?” to Fully Planned Family Adventure

A Mom is one phone call away from the family trip of a lifetime

By: Jennifer Tombaugh, Tauck President

Last month, my summer vacation plans fell apart. One son’s internship started earlier than expected, my eldest daughter’s art project needed advanced prep, and our carefully planned, two-week vacation with my husband and our four kids went “poof!”

What remained was a three-week hole in my 14-year-old twins’ schedule. Free time, cell phones and teenagers are a recipe for disaster. I didn’t have time to spend hours researching new camp options. My husband was out-of-town. I wanted them to have some sort of meaningful experience. What to do?

Many families I know can relate. With our over-scheduled lives, ever-present electronics, distant family members and unshared dinners, we crave time just to be together, unplug and laugh. Knowing our time with our children is limited, we are eager to give them opportunities to learn and grow.

A lot of work goes into planning family vacations (a task predominantly falling to moms), and that insight inspired Tauck to create the first global guided family travel brand. On my first day at Tauck 22 years ago, our now-CEO Dan Mahar handed me a business plan on “family travel”. We already had parents and grandparents wanting to give meaningful travel experiences and create great memories with their kids and grandkids. They just didn’t want the hassle of planning it all.

Back then, I only knew family travel through my own experiences. My parents brought my brother and me along when my dad won sales incentive trips, and they always prioritized visiting my mom’s family in Germany. Armed with my love of travel and the help of Dan and dozens at Tauck, we piloted Tauck Family Travel in 2002 (despite the setbacks of 9/11) and launched Tauck Bridges in 2003.

Tombaugh family with local guides on Tauck’s *Tanzania: A Grand Family Adventure*

Today, I have four children (one in college….in Switzerland!). My affection and pride in Tauck Bridges only grows, and I appreciate what we call the “shared enrichment” we offer even more. The recent, difficult Covid years emphasized how fleeting and precious family time is. Nothing—nothing—enriches lives more than traveling together. I’ve seen first-hand my son’s awe in spotting his first cheetah or my family’s unbridled joy biking in the shadows of Austrian castles. Years later, when I thought my young son wouldn’t remember any of this, I found him writing the Ambassador to Tanzania for a school project and correctly retelling a story behind a painting we saw at the Lobkowicz Palace in Prague.

Tombaugh family on Tauck’s *Blue Danube: Family Riverboat Adventure*

I also appreciate the ease of having someone else do the planning. Adults, you get this. You’re on the firing line of “What are we doing today? I don’t want to do that! How come he gets to decide? Why is it taking so long?” I’ve never been happier traveling with my family than when, after 10 beautiful (exhausting, for me) days in Switzerland, which my husband and I spent weeks organizing, we arrived aboard Tauck’s Blue Danube family river cruise. When the same questions started, I simply said, “Go ask the Tauck Director.” We could all laugh, enjoy and relax (even me!). It was a gift for all of us. It allowed us to be truly present with each other.

Tombaughs on Tauck’s *Tanzania: A Grand Family Adventure*

We often receive letters from our guests, and the ones that move us to tears are from our Tauck Bridges families. A grandfather’s final wish to take his extended family on safari. A seven-year-old’s crayoned picture of her family at the Grand Canyon. The grandparents’ photos of each year of travels with a different grandchild in London and Paris. Stories of teenagers who met on a Bridges trip and stayed in touch for years (like my own!). We even have employees now who first learned about Tauck through a Bridges trip they took with their families!

So, last month, when my family vacation fell apart, what did I do? I called our Tauck Reservations Center and booked us on Cowboy Country, a western adventure through Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks and the great ranches and plains of Wyoming.

I know I’ll be at peace, and the kids will be laughing and having a great time, as we ride off into the sunset.

About Jennifer Tombaugh

Jennifer Tombaugh is President of Tauck, the US-based leader in guided tours and cruises serving all seven continents. Jennifer joined Tauck in 2001 to help guide the creation and launch of Tauck Bridges, the company’s collection of 20 family travel adventures in North America, Europe, Africa and Latin America. As President (and as a member of Tauck’s Executive Team), Jennifer guides the company’s day-to-day operations while also helping drive its long-term direction and strategy. Jennifer is Chairman of the Board of Directors of the European Tourism Association (ETOA) and is a Board Director at Sacred Heart University’s Jack Welch College of Business & Technology, The Lobkowicz Collections (Czech Republic) and the Harvard Club of Southern Connecticut. She is also a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization and the International Women’s Forum of Connecticut.

About Tauck

Founded in 1925, family-owned and operated Tauck is the world leader in premium-quality guided travel. The company offers more than 150 distinctive, enriching and all-inclusive land journeys, European river cruises, small ship ocean cruises and Tauck Bridges family travel adventures.

Tauck travels to more than 70 countries and all seven continents, delighting its guests with exclusive, off-the-beaten-path cultural experiences as well as unique insider visits to popular “must-see” sites and attractions – all at incredible value, and all backed by the services of a professional Tauck Director. Several Tauck journeys in the U.S. are the product of a partnership with the award-winning filmmaker Ken Burns, with elements exploring themes from his films including The National Parks: America’s Best Idea, The Civil War and Jazz.

Over the years, Tauck has been honored with more than 200 awards for excellence and service. In fact, Tauck is the only company to be named the “World’s Best Tour Operator” and the “World’s Best River Cruise Line” three times each by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine.

Photos courtesy of Jennifer Tombaugh

Header image courtesy of iStock

Navigating the Unpredictable: Unpacking the Most Common Travel Insurance Claims and How to Handle Them

By: Redpoint Travel Protection

*Photo Courtesy of Redpoint Travel Protection*

Travel is, by nature, an unpredictable endeavor. We plot our journeys with meticulous detail, but life has a way of inserting unexpected plot twists. It’s these unforeseen curveballs that make travel insurance such a vital companion on our explorations. From medical emergencies to misplaced luggage, travel insurance is your lifeline when things veer off the itinerary. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the most common travel insurance claims and provide clear guidelines on what to do should you find yourself facing these predicaments.

Medical Emergencies

By far, the most common and often most significant travel insurance claim is for medical emergencies. A sudden illness or injury during your trip can not only ruin your plans but also cause a severe financial strain. If you find yourself in this unfortunate scenario, it’s crucial first to seek immediate medical attention. Afterwards, get in touch with your travel insurance provider as soon as possible, ensuring you have all your medical documents at hand to file your claim effectively.

Trip Cancellation or Interruption

The second most common claim revolves around trip cancellations or interruptions. Unforeseen events like illness, personal emergencies, or even global crises can throw a wrench in the best-laid travel plans. In such cases, you should inform your insurance provider immediately. You’ll need to provide substantial evidence for the reason behind the interruption or cancellation, such as a doctor’s note for medical emergencies or documented proof of a significant event.

Lost, Damaged, or Stolen Luggage

There’s little as frustrating as arriving at your destination only to discover your luggage took an entirely different trip. Loss of personal belongings can cast a shadow over any trip, but that’s where travel insurance swoops in to save the day. In the event of lost, damaged, or stolen luggage, make sure to report the incident to the relevant authorities or airline and obtain a written report. Contact your insurance provider promptly with these details to start your claim process.

Travel Delays

In the realm of travel, delays are virtually a given. Whether it’s a missed connection due to a late inbound flight or a cancellation due to adverse weather conditions, travel delays can disrupt your plans significantly. With travel insurance, you can claim costs incurred as a result of these unexpected delays. Always keep all documents and receipts related to your delay as your insurance provider will require them when you file a claim.

Now that we’ve covered the most common claims, let’s delve into some key steps on how to make an insurance claim:

Step 1: Contact Your Insurance Provider

The first step after any mishap is to contact your insurance provider. Most insurers have 24/7 hotlines for such emergencies. They’ll guide you on how to proceed, what documents you need, and how to submit your claim.

Step 2: Document Everything

Insurance claims thrive on evidence. Therefore, it’s crucial to document everything related to your claim. For medical emergencies, keep a record of all medical reports, prescriptions, and invoices. For lost luggage or travel delays, maintain all related receipts and correspondence with airlines or authorities.

Step 3: Submit Your Claim Promptly

It’s essential to file your claim as soon as you can to avoid missing out on your coverage due to time restrictions.

The realm of travel insurance can be a maze of complexities. Still, by understanding the most common claims and knowing how to navigate the claim process, you can ensure you’re prepared for any surprises your travels may throw at you. Remember, the purpose of travel insurance is to be your safety net in unfamiliar territory. It’s there to support you when unforeseen circumstances threaten to disrupt your journey, bringing you peace of mind and financial protection when you need it most.

Once you’ve submitted your claim, ensure you follow up if necessary. Keep track of your claim’s status and be proactive in providing any additional information that your insurer might need.

In closing, while we all hope to avoid the need for making travel insurance claims, the reality is that unexpected incidents do occur. By understanding the most common types of claims and how to handle them, you can take control of such situations, ensuring that your journey doesn’t end on a sour note.

With the right approach and proactive handling of the claim process, you can turn what might initially feel like a nightmare into a minor bump on your travel road. So, the next time you’re preparing for a trip, give your travel insurance policy the attention it deserves. Understand what it covers and the process of making a claim. That way, if life does throw a curveball your way, you’ll be ready to hit it out of the park.

Remember, travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination, and a comprehensive travel insurance policy ensures that no matter what comes your way, your adventure can go on.

About Redpoint Travel Protection

Redpoint Travel Protection is a one-of-a-kind protection provider. It provides an extensive suite of travel insurance products and emergency services for individuals and groups of all sizes. Backed by a seasoned team of experts, Redpoint offers unparalleled peace of mind to adventurers across the globe. With services such as trip cancellation, interruption, delay, and baggage loss insurance, to emergency medical and evacuation services, Redpoint ensures your safety and satisfaction are top priorities. Our services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of travelers, whether it’s an international family vacation, a solo adventure, or a corporate trip. Leveraging innovative technology and a responsive, 24/7 customer support, Redpoint effectively addresses contingencies, enabling clients to explore with confidence. Choose Redpoint Travel Protection, your reliable partner in ensuring safe, secure, and worry-free journeys.

The Plight of the Forest Person

By: Ralf Korber – SITA World Tours

Wake up is at 3am. Breakfast. At 4am we get into our two boats, ten of us in each simple, open craft to go down the lower Kinabatangan River to the Bornean village of Sukau where a bus will be waiting returning us to Sandakan airport. The river is wide here. It is dark and low fog is hanging over the water. The stars and half-moon are beautiful, but we cannot see the riverbank. A strangely delightful experience. The remoteness of this place is palatable. And how do the boat drivers navigate safely in this foggy darkness?

Our small group had spent three days in a rainforest lodge at the Kinabatangan, Orangutan and other wildlife trekking. We were folks in our 60s, 70s and three of us were octogenarians, all nature and animal lovers. Most of us visiting were aware that the world we had entered was under threat. Three days earlier on our two-hour ride from Sandakan to the tiny hamlet of Sukau, where the boats were waiting to take us upriver, we had transited a landscape of rolling hills with palm oil plantations. These palms lined up in orderly rows to the horizon. A man-made landscape. Impressive and at the same time ominous. The home of the Orangutan no more.

The rainforest the Orangutans call home today is a relatively narrow stretch of secondary forest along the river. Primary forest lands here had been logged decades earlier we learned. Classroom style information shared with us at the rainforest lodge was honest and thorough. Informative maps highlighted the remaining wildlife space in comparison to the vast surrounding palm oil lands truthfully.

Patches of rain forest along the river, a few square miles each and not all connected to each other. “Does this mean the Orangutan population cannot cross breed to keep the gene pool healthy”? “Do they cross over the palm oil plantation space to the next forest patch”? Those were questions we had. They were met by euphemistic answers. “The government is aware”, we were told. And “Orangutans are the slowest breeding mammals and inbreeding issues would earliest become a challenge in 100 years”.

Nevertheless, trekking through these forests is a rewarding adventure. The nature guides we had contracted were phenomenal and much needed. All of us were from US metro areas and therefore had developed urban sensory expertise. Useless here. The guides saw things we would not. The trekking itself is not always easy. One must cross creeks and ditches and while it is fun to slide down a muddy embankment, try to climb up on the other side. Some of us needed help, a push or pull. The nature guides performed well in this, too. It made for good laughs as did the ever-present leech avoidance efforts. The lodge sells leech-socks at a nominal fee, a garment most were unfamiliar with, but all added quickly to their wardrobe. And one can rent rubber boots.

With the help of the guides, we found orangutans in the forest including a mother and son duo. Magic moments. For a minute the thought of danger confronting these amazing animals is forgotten.

Some of us also took boats to travel to the forest. Ideal for older visitors. There are plenty of natural side channels to the Kinabatangan, some of them narrow. It is easy to meet a variety of rainforest creatures. During one such moment, we came across a 23-member troop of Long-Tailed Macaques. The sun was setting; bedtime. The adults were already resting on various branches of a large tree right at the water’s edge, yet one juvenile couldn’t settle down and visibly annoyed the seniors by jumping around. We lingered for a while watching the spectacle. An Asian elephant family delighted with considerable noise a few moments later.

The touristic service part of our visit was impressive. Nature guides enhance the experience. The river lodge was well done, built on an elevated wood frame construction to keep distance to the forest floor. There were two-bedroom units to each chalet. The units were air conditioned. The power is solar cell generated with traditional generators as emergency backup. Daily fresh food. Malaysian cuisine is fusion cuisine by cultural default, a mixture of Malay, Chinese, Indian. Very tasty.

We learned a lot. A question remains: how will the Orangutan, a creature with about 97 percent of our own DNA, survive man’s relentless expansion into their habitat? Or will they?

About SITA World Tours

With 89 years of exemplary service in travel, SITA remains as the go-to tour operator for exotic destinations worldwide. Headquartered in Los Angeles, SITA is renowned for its highly experienced team of international specialists and is dedicated to travel excellence in every element of its programs. As a deluxe, luxury tour operator specializing in Packaged, Independent, Customized and Groups travel, SITA has become a key source for both the Consortium and Agent network nationwide. SITA’s well-planned tours focus on a destination’s culture, history and unique geography providing the greatest value to clients.

About Ralf Korbner – SITA World Tours

Growing up on a horse ranch in Germany with a younger brother, two cousins and lots of animals, travel was part of our annual family rhythm as long as I can remember. Summers were spent in Italy or Spain, winters in Austria for skiing and there were trips to the Baltic Sea or along the Rhine and Mosel with visits to castles and towns along those rivers. After graduating from high school on an island in the North Sea and while a university student in Germany, friends and I drove all over Europe during summer vacations. Those trips also included Turkey, Morocco and several of the countries then still behind the Iron Curtain. I became a member of the travel industry community after completing my studies at a California university. Visits to countries in Asia, Africa and travel in Australia and New Zealand have since broadened my geographic and cultural knowledge.

Solo Travel

By: Lion World Travel

Is travel to Africa on your bucket list, but not on your partner’s? Do you and your partner take vacations at different times? Do you like to travel with your friends, but prefer to stay in your own room?

Solo travel offers new opportunities and fantastic experiences. There is nothing quite as energizing as a trip to Africa, to go to the places you want to visit, meet new people, experience new cultures, try the local cuisine, go on a safari, and return with memories of a lifetime.

“Single passengers make up a fair amount of the leisure travel to Africa, and they tend to be a forgotten demographic,” says Lucille Sive, (CEO TTC Africa). “Passengers traveling on their own should not be penalized. We want to change that by serving our clients better by offering some of our incredible deals that have either no single supplement fee, or a significantly reduced single supplement fee.“

Here is a list of travel tips that can help you on your next solo adventure:

When you check your bags make certain that the airline baggage tag on your luggage is labelled with the airport code for the right destination before the bag is put on the conveyor belt.
Use a Bluetooth or GPS tracker for your luggage.
Request an airport Meet and Greet. A local representative will welcome you on arrival at your first point of entry into the country. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have and get some initial tips and information.
Location is of utmost importance. Book a hotel that is in close proximity to shopping and restaurants.

Always leave your cash and valuables in your hotel room safe, or if you are at a safari lodge with no safes, have the lodge manager store your valuables for you.
Be street savvy. Always be prepared with cash, and a map or guidebook so that you are self-sufficient.
If you need to withdraw cash from an ATM, do so during daylight hours and be aware of who is loitering around you.
Stay connected. Make it a habit to update family and friends back home about your itinerary.
Try to meet other travelers with small conversation starters like “Where are you traveling from?”

Lion World Travel has tried to make solo travel within everyone’s reach by offering a great selection of itineraries where no or low single supplement is applied.

If you’ve been putting off a trip because you’re waiting for someone to travel with, it’s time to just go. In Africa a smile or greeting from the locals is a common sign of friendliness. The warm people, exceptional wildlife, and breathtaking scenery will be your welcome. Relax and enjoy Africa – it is a great place to travel, even – or especially – on your own.

About Lion World Travel:
Lion World Travel is the leading tour operator from North America specializing in group and individual tours to Southern and East Africa and is a member of the renowned TTC , which also includes: Trafalgar Tours, Contiki, Brendan Vacations, Insight Vacations, The Red Carnation Hotel Collection and Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Clients continue to benefit from Lion World Travels’ destination knowledge, expertise, and emphasis on customer service. With their Africa Specialists all having first-hand knowledge of Africa, Lion World Travel confidently assists clients in creating an African adventure that fits their interests and budget. Extraordinary service, affordable luxury and value for money are what keep clients coming back to Lion World Travel.

Meaningful Family Safari

By: African Travel Inc.

An African safari is a unique bonding opportunity with loved ones. Children will be awestruck as the giraffe, zebras and elephants of their textbooks are brought to life. Parents or grandparents will love seeing the kids gain new insights, while experiencing diverse cultures. What better way to inspire our future global citizens?

Whether traveling with young children, teenagers or several generations, African Travel’s safari specialists can guide you to select the right destination, and personalize a family safari based on ages and interest while making your travels matter.

Here are some tips to plan the perfect safari while making travel matter.

Where to Start?

Choose a destination, then decide on pace, and experiences. Some families are very active and prefer constant engagement, while other families, prefer longer stays with less packing and unpacking.

*Kids on a Safari in* *Sha*mwari – *Photo Courtesy of African Travel Inc.*

Mixed Ages & Young Families

Activities are fun and engaging, while being educational. Little ones will be amazed to learn that dung beetles roll dung 250 times their own weight. They will squeal with laughter at the donkey like braying sounds of the African Penguin.

Something we often hear is kids need to be kept busy so that they don’t get bored. Southern Africa Through a Child’s Eyes is tailored to meet the special needs of families especially those with kids that would enjoy a kid’s club. Sabi Sabi’s Elefun Center supervised ranger led activities teach kids about bush survival, and bugs CSI, while parents can relax and enjoy the incredible safaris, or have a pamper session in the spa.

Adding a few days in Victoria Falls offers an exciting land and water safari option for families and kids of all ages.

Something for Everyone

South Africa offers a well-rounded experience, with cosmopolitan cities, a rainbow nation of richly diverse cultures and spectacular scenery. Combined with high quality malaria free safari options, this is the perfect destination for families with both young and older kids.

Families will have the experience of a lifetime on our Family Safari in South Africa. This safari satisfies adventurous city and bush interests while relaxing at beautiful places and beaches, learning the importance of conservation at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. For younger kids, a dedicated Kids Adventure Centre will keep children entertained with zipline, cookie decorating, rock climbing walls and climbing towers. Older kids can enjoy walking safaris and exploring the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary and everyone can go behind the scenes to meet the passionate wildlife caretakers at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

*Camp Moremi – Photo Courtesy of African Travel Inc.*

Tweens and Teens

Boring textbook biology is brought to life on nature walks and game drives with experienced guides. Surrounded by the sounds and smells of nature, learn about medicinal herbs, animal tracks, and micro ecosystems, and how everything is inter-connected.

Botswana is the benchmark when it comes to sustainable ecotourism practices in Africa. Access to these pristine settings and stunning landscapes are generally by light aircraft. Accommodations for the most part are tented, best suited for families with tweens and older children. Made for soft adventure, Best of Botswana explores the Okavango Delta’s secret channels on boat rides and traditional dugout canoes and the seasonal floodplains in 4×4 safari drives.

Multi-Generational Families

Enjoy the simple pleasures, like the serenity of a sunrise over the savanna, fiery sunsets and starry nights around a campfire, sharing the day’s adventures.

Kenya, the birthplace of the safari is also a magical place for all family members. The Family Safari in Kenya tour is perfect for all ages and is all about extraordinary wildlife and true adventure in style and safety. While staying at family owned lodges, rewild the kids, meet the local Maasai, and participate in wildlife conservation projects. Bring your kids to Kenya’s first Bush School for children and for older family members accompany the antipoaching ranger unit to learn about game counts, de-snaring and tracking.

A Family Safari in Tanzania is a wonderful engaging experience for both young and the young at heart. Learn new skills, like shooting with a bow and arrow, or how to start a fire with a stone and twig from a Maasai. At Gibbs Farm, guests can tinker around with the carpenters, the desks can be engraved with a personalized message and families can personally deliver the desks to a school.

At African Travel, we create transformative experiences filled with life changing moments. All trips mentioned include a dedicated team of experts to plan a trip and local Guest Services team available 24 hours, 7 days a week to assist while traveling. For every safari, a a contribution is also made to support local communities or wildlife.

For more information or to customize a trip, contact a safari specialist at 800-421-8907 or request a quote.