While more than half of the entire planet is still under locked-down, the traveling industry is going through uncertain times. Travellers are all wondering the same question: when are we going to be able to travel again? And how is it gonna be?
In this article, we will report the latest news concerning the travel industry whether tackling the international travel restriction or your flight cancellation…
The impact of COVID-19 has a big impact on the travel industry. Indeed, as you know countries around the world have imposed sweeping travel bans and advisories to stem the spread of coronavirus within their borders and beyond. But the industry has managed to adapt and offer some solutions. In many cases, the actors of the travel industry have stepped up to help as well.
Flight cancellations
Airlines have scrambled to adapt operations to travel bans and a staggering drop in global demand. Indeed, airlines have changed their cancellations policies and completely stopped certain flight roads. Some companies such as Air France or Delta Airlines have implemented schedule changes and flexible rebooking policies. Some companies also offer vouchers to their customers. However, you need to know that they are often legally obligated to give you a cash refund.
If you have an upcoming booking, you should search for advisories and instructions posted on companies’ websites. Moreover, if you book your trip with travel insurance we can check this article: Does Travel Insurance Cover the COVID-19?
Cruise line suspensions
Cruise lines have temporarily suspended operations worldwide and altered future sailings due to the spread of COVID-19. Cancellations for a cruise are usually a rare thing. However, we have observed that due to COVID-19 many cruise lines have reacted by relaxing their cancellation and postponement policies, allowing concerned passengers to cancel.
All cruising is on hold until at least the beginning of July due to a mandate from the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC). Virgin Voyages has postponed the maiden voyage of its first cruise ship, Scarlet Lady, until August.
Vacation rental and hotel booking waivers:
Though Airbnb cancellation policies are usually determined by the individual, the brand has expanded its extenuating circumstances policy, allowing refundable cancellation for most travellers.
You need to take into account that you’ll find different restrictions depending on where you book. Some of them offer cancellation for free or allow last-minute reservation change without additional fees.
When can we travel again?
Unfortunately, we are still facing uncertain times and there’s no answers yet, given how the disease is still spreading around the world. It is still too soon to know when it will be safe to go on international trips again, as Coronavirus is affecting each country in a different way.
Most countries have implemented entry bans for travellers, along with quarantines for their citizens. Travel restrictions vary in form but have generally the same goal: prevent their citizens from traveling abroad and deny entry to travellers potentially contaminated.
CNBC channel news spoke to experts across the health-care and tourism industries to understand the medical risks and the way consumers are thinking about travel. What came out is that it could be 18 to 24 months before travel goes back to normal.
While travel bans may be lifted progressively starting from the middle of May, it is certain that this doesn’t mean a return to normal is to be anticipated before the end of the year at least. Domestic travel will recover first, most likely by the road rather than the air, while international travel will continue to be massively restricted.
The COVID-19 situation changes too fast to predict the future. You will probably discover if it will be safe to travel this summer to your destination only one month in advance.
But don’t forget that while traveling abroad, is it really important to have travel insurance. Isn’t it important to be protected against unexpected cancellations and sudden health emergencies? We recommend Seven Corners! For more than 25 years, Seven Corners insurance has been helping travelers 24/7 and has helped people all over the world.
You can check it here: Travel Insurance
We, advise travellers, to put their summer travel plans on hold, as frustrating as it may be, and stay safe for now! We all hope to go back to travel very soon.
Written by Clémence Aubry