Overseas Travel Advisor

How I Spent My Spring Break

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 23:10:00 +0000

Dear Mom and Dad,

Spring Break is a blast, wish you were here. The ocean is just beautiful, and the water is so clear you can almost see the jellyfish before they sting you. Boy those little suckers really hurt! I think I might remember where I left my wallet, too. I sure hope so, cause for the past few days I have been existing on a diet of Chicklets that I purchased from one of the roadside natives here. I tell ya, people can be very friendly to tourists. Just yesterday, some people told me to take a hike. I thought that was very nice of them to suggest recreational activities. Unfortunately, since the airline lost one of my bags on the way down here, I didn't have my hiking boots, and when that lizard bit my ankle, it hurt almost as bad as falling down that hill afterwards.

Thankfully, my friends were able to assemble a makeshift stretcher to help me get back to the main road, and boy were we ever relieved when that nice man in the truck came by to give us a ride to the clinic. At least, I think it was a clinic. I mean, there were cots there with a bunch of sick people laying on them, and I really think that if we had waited just a little longer, someone would have assisted us eventually. I'm really not sure. I was kind of beginning to pass out from the pain and none of the people dressed like nurses spoke English. My buddy had his translation dictionary with him, and although he tried to get help, it seems the clinic wouldn't treat me unless I paid them first. Unfortunately, they did not accept Chicklets.

Don't worry about me though, my foot is still black but I am beginning to get the feeling back in my toes which is certainly a good thing when you're sleeping outdoors. There are some crazy insects around here! I sure wish the hotel wouldn't have lost my reservation.

You know what mom and dad? I've been thinking about how you told me to get trip insurance from Insurance Services of America. I guess I didn't think I would need it, but it sure would have been nice to have someone who could have gotten me a new hotel room, or some emergency cash when I lost my wallet, or bought me some new boots, or paid the clinic so they would treat me and get me back home safely. Just like you would have done yourself if you were here. For under 2 bucks a day, a travel medical plan could have protected me and given you peace of mind, too. But don't worry about me, mom and dad! I think I might be coming home soon. I found a company that does medical evacuations, and although it is a bit costly, at least I'll be safe. And I promise, I will totally pay you back the Fifty Thousand Dollars just as soon as I can.

See you guys soon,

Your Son.

Save Money When you Travel During The Off-Season

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 19:15:00 +0000

Planning to visit Hawaii, Aspen, New York, Paris or Napa, might require a hefty vacation budget, but if you time it right, you can visit these destinations when these places are at their most affordable. The best time to travel varies from destination to destination. That can mean shoulder season or off season, or finding that window in high season when rates take a dip, if only for a couple of weeks. And it's worth the effort, because the savings can range from 20 to 50 percent off high-season prices. They may not be truly "cheap”, but certainly more affordable.

Take London for example; both airfares and hotel rates fall between Oct. 15 and March 31, with the exception being the Christmas-through-New Year's holiday period.
The caveats here: weather and daylight. Wet, rainy and cold weather is to be expected, and the lack of daylight might turn off some travelers. In mid-winter the sun sets in London at 3:45 p.m. But if you accept that museums, the theater and restaurants are where you'll spend most of your time, you probably won't mind it so much.

Then there's Hawaii. Go now, while recession continues to leave thousands of empty hotel rooms throughout the state. If you're willing, postpone travel between September and early December, which has long been the low season for the Aloha State.

The month of May is a great time for Caribbean travel. By then prices could have dropped as much as 50 percent from winter highs, the weather is still terrific and the spring break crowds are gone. The weather gets warmer in June, but it can still be a terrific time to go. While July and August are quite hot, they might still be preferable to the weather in the U.S. at the same time. (Certainly cooler than our Arizona office!) September through November are the quietest time in the islands.
Of course there is one caution to heed in the Caribbean, and that's hurricane season, which extends from June through November. You should have travel insurance and stay at a hotel that has a hurricane policy (with refunds clearly spelled out).

Skiing in Aspen without dipping into your retirement fund? Go in early December. A rate at a popular luxury hotel was $219 a night for a mid-December stay in a basic room. In February that same room had jumped to $439 per night. Other dates worth looking at are the entire month of January, except Martin Luther King Jr. weekend.

Balmy breezes and empty beaches make Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket best during May and June. Before the private jet set arrive on these pricey islands every summer and fall, most hotels offer weekend deals to entice us regular folk. You'll especially see a lot of midweek deals. You can stroll these island beaches during May and June, but the waters don't really begin to warm up until July.

A trip insurance plan from Insurance Services of America fits nicely into your budget-conscious vacation plans. Since trip insurance rates are based on the cost of your trip, saving money at your destination means saving money on your coverage.

Call the experts at Insurance Services of America.

Show us your plans, and we'll show you ours!

800-647-4589

Spring Strike!

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 20:01:00 +0000

The friendly skies? Not so much.

Lufthansa pilots just had a strike. British Airways flight attendants are planning a strike. Now French (and possibly Greek) air controllers are on strike. French air traffic controllers are in day two of their action and air traffic is suffering from all of the above.

As Spring break approaches, what better time for air controllers to call a five-day-long strike? On Tuesday, France’s civil aviation authority ordered airlines to cancel 25 percent of the flights at Paris’s Charles de Gaulle Airport, which is a major hub for air travel in the European Union. At this time, intercontinental flights are expected to operate. But short and medium-haul flights were disrupted Tuesday and significant cancellations and delays are anticipated today and until the end of the week.

Fifty percent of flights at Orly, Paris’s smaller airport, which serves destinations within the European Union, French overseas territories and North Africa, have been canceled. Some smaller French airports have closed completely.

This strike follows Lufthansa’s main pilots’ union agreeing to postpone its strike until March 9th. Even though the German airline agreed to return to the bargaining table, its flight schedule has already been disrupted. Air travelers should expect to be victims of the domino effect.

As of Wednesday morning, flights from Paris to the U.S. are operating, but expect delays.

In the UK, the union representing more than 12,000 British Airways cabin crew members voted Monday to strike over changes introduced late last year to employees’ contracts and a proposed two-year pay freeze. Air traffic controllers in Greece planned a 24-hour strike today to protest planned government budget cuts — the second such strike in less than a month there. Athens International Airport warned on its Web site that all flights into and out of the Greek capital would be canceled as of midnight.

Before leaving for the airport, confirm that your flight is operating and be prepared to wait.

A trip insurance from Insurance Services of America is designed to protect you if a strike hinders your travel plans. Naturally there are some exclusions, and policy wording can be confusing, so for regular folks like you and me, here’s how it breaks down:

In order for you to be covered in the event of a strike, you must purchase your trip insurance at least 14 days before you depart, and if a strike has already been announced prior to you purchasing coverage, it will not be covered. (This goes back to the old cliché about purchasing homeowners insurance while your house is on fire.)

So what can Insurance Services Of America policyholders expect if they get stuck due to the strikes? While their fellow stranded passengers clamor for the ticket counter, our clients need only make a quick phone call while our travel assistants take care of business.

Due to the worldwide financial crisis, travel experts do not anticipate things getting better any time soon, in fact, they say it will probably get worse. Right about now, you might be planning your summer travel, and there is no better time to make sure your trip insurance is in place before another strike is announced.

Call the experts at Insurance Services Of America to help you find the perfect plan for your travel needs.

800-647-4589

Those Darn Monkeys

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 19:16:00 +0000

In my line of work, I hear some pretty crazy travel stories.

Many travelers figure they won’t need travel medical or trip insurance. I hear things like, “I’m extremely healthy”, or “I won’t be gone very long”, but what folks don’t realize is that anything can happen when you travel, regardless of your physical condition or what precautions you take.
Take for example the seasick traveler, whose false teeth fell out while he vomited over the side of a cruise ship, and put in a claim to his travel insurers for new dentures under “lost baggage”.

Take a gander at these actual claims made on a Travel Insurance policy:

Two vacationers in England filed a claim for damage to the paintwork of their car after it was licked by a herd of cows.

Two children visiting the beach with their family buried their parents’ video camera in the sand to prevent it from being stolen while they went swimming, but could not remember where. Thankfully, the insurers paid out.

A young British traveler, distracted by the appearance of a group of women in bikinis, broke his nose when he walked into a bus shelter in Athens. The insurance company paid the hospital bills.

A couple on vacation in Malaysia returned to their hotel to find that monkeys had stolen their clothes and scattered them all across the neighboring rainforest. Yup, the insurance company paid the claim.

A vacationer in Sri Lanka needed hospital treatment after a coconut fell on her head while she was reading in the shade below. Her insurance covered her medical expenses.

Destination wedding? A bride's dream Caribbean wedding was ruined after her dress caught fire on the barbecue. The groom picked up his wife and threw her into the ocean.

If you are planning a trip, big or small, BE PREPARED~ A comprehensive travel medical plan from Insurance Services of America will be all the protection you’ll need from the unexpected.

Lost In Translation?

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 19:04:00 +0000

My co-workers are wondering why I am sitting alone in my office laughing hysterically, so I will leave them to think I have lost my mind as I share with you the reason for my amusement.

These are actual signs that, when translated into English, take on a whole new meaning:

MANGLED TRANSLATIONS FROM ABROAD:

In a Paris hotel elevator:
Please leave your values at the front desk.

In a hotel in Athens:
Visitors are expected to complain at the office between the hours of 9 and 11 A.M. daily.

In a Yugoslavian hotel:
The flattening of underwear with pleasure is the job of the chambermaid.

In a Japanese hotel:
You are invited to take advantage of the chambermaid.

On the menu of a Swiss restaurant:
Our wines leave you nothing to hope for.

On the menu of a Polish hotel:
Salad a firm's own make; limpid red beet soup with cheesy dumplings in the form of a finger; roasted duck let loose; beef rashers beaten up in the country people's fashion.

In a Rhodes tailor shop:
Order your summers suit. Because is big rush we will execute customers in strict rotation.

A sign posted in Germany's Black Forest:
It is strictly forbidden on our black forest camping site that people of different sex, for instance, men and women, live together in one tent unless they are married with each other for that purpose

In a Zurich hotel:
Because of the impropriety of entertaining guests of the opposite sex in the bedroom, it is suggested that the lobby be used for this purpose.

In an advertisement by a Hong Kong dentist:
Teeth extracted by the latest Methodists.

In a Rome laundry:
Ladies, leave your clothes here and spend the afternoon having a good time.

Advertisement for donkey rides in Thailand:
Would you like to ride on your own ass?

In a Bangkok temple:
It is forbidden to enter a woman even a foreigner if dressed as a man.

In a Copenhagen airline ticket office:
We take your bags and send them in all directions.

In the office of a Roman doctor:
Specialist in women and other diseases.

From a brochure of a car rental firm in Tokyo:
When passenger of foot heave in sight, tootle the horn. Trumpet him melodiously at first, but if he still obstacles your passage then tootle him with vigor.

And to top it off

The Dairy Association's huge success with the campaign "Got Milk?" prompted them to expand advertising to Mexico. It was soon brought to their attention the Spanish translation read "Are you lactating?"

Coors put its slogan, "Turn it loose," into Spanish, where it was read as "Suffer from diarrhea".

Scandinavian vacuum manufacturer Electrolux used the following in an American campaign: "Nothing sucks like an Electrolux".

Clairol introduced the "Mist Stick" curling iron to Germany, only to find out that "mist" is slang for manure. Not too many people had use for the "manure stick".

When Gerber started selling baby food in Africa, they used the same packaging as in the US, with the smiling baby on the label. Later they learned that in Africa, companies routinely put pictures on the label of what's inside, since many people can't read.

Colgate introduced a toothpaste in France called Cue, the name of a notorious porno magazine.

An American T-shirt maker in Miami printed shirts for the Spanish market which promoted the Pope's visit. Instead of "I saw the Pope" (el Papa), the shirts read "I saw the potato" (la papa).

Pepsi's "Come alive with the Pepsi Generation" translated into "Pepsi brings your ancestors back from the grave", in Chinese.

The Coca-Cola name in China was first read as "Kekoukela", meaning "Bite the wax tadpole" or "female horse stuffed with wax", depending on the dialect. Coke then researched 40,000 characters to find a phonetic equivalent "kokou kole", translating into "happiness in the mouth".

Frank Perdue's chicken slogan, "it takes a strong man to make a tender chicken" was translated into Spanish as "it takes an aroused man to make a chicken affectionate".

When American Airlines wanted to advertise its new leather first class seats in the Mexican market, it translated its "Fly in leather" campaign literally, which meant "Fly naked" (vuela en cuero) in Spanish.

When Parker Pen marketed a ball-point pen in Mexico, its ads were supposed to have read, "it won't leak in your pocket and embarrass you". The company thought that the word "embarazar" (to impregnate) meant to embarrass, so the ad read: "It won't leak in your pocket and make you pregnant".

If you're traveling to Tokyo, are you prepared to be toodled with vigor?

What of the airline takes your bags and sends them in all directions?

What if you become impregnated by your pen while flying naked to Mexico?

Yeah, we've got a plan for that.

At Insurance Services of America, we specialize in International Travel Medical and Trip Insurance.

Give us a call for prompt, professional, personal service.

800-647-4589

You never know what might happen while the chambermaid is flattening your underwear.

The REAL Meaning of Christmas

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:04:00 +0000

Merry Christmas from your friends at

Insurance Services of America!

Gobble up these Thanksgiving Travel Tips:

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:47:00 +0000

It’s hard to believe but we’re only a few weeks away from Thanksgiving. Travelers who are planning to fly somewhere and haven’t booked yet should be prepared for some painful fares and middle seats. For those who have booked and have confirmed reservations, here’s a trio of tips from Consumer Traveler, from the obvious, to perhaps the not-so-obvious.

1. Forget having a “normal” airport experience. Planes full of families and leisure travelers are just not the same as equally-full planes of business travelers. Occasional travelers are often less “entitled” than regular fliers, which is a good thing. But they don’t have the “rules” memorized, which is not.
Plenty of folks in security lines will be stopped for cell phones in pockets, water bottles in carry-ons, etc, etc. And, due to people cashing in miles and frequent fliers bringing their families, some of these people will be in the elite lines. (One line was held up recently by a young child who at first refused to take his shoes off.)

2. Full planes and iffy late November weather don’t increase the odds for a successful checked luggage experience. Especially as airlines try their best to keep flights on time, as they know people really want to make it home for the holidays. Getting baggage to destinations together with their owner is a goal, but a lower priority. In additional, leisure travelers tend to check more bags, so there’s simply more volume.
This doesn’t mean not to check your luggage, but if you have a special dress or outfit you REALLY want to wear for a holiday meal, or anything you must have within 24 hours of arrival, try extra hard to put it in your carry-on.

3. Bring a sense of humor. It’s not an easy travel holiday. Even people who are excited about visiting friends and relatives are usually at least a little stressed. And some are more than a little stressed. Plus, road warriors who are used to traveling and flying solo now are getting brought back to earth with family members. (The child who didn’t want to take his shoes off was with an elite-status frequent flier mother, who was incredibly embarrassed by her son’s actions.)

Keep these three Thanksgiving factors in mind while traveling and many maddening things that drive you crazy at the time will make great Thanksgiving dinner table stories later.

Whether you are driving, flying, or taking the train this Thanksgiving, don’t leave home without adequate travel insurance. Why risk your financial investment in the event of accident or illness, lost luggage, and missed connections? Call the pro’s at Insurance Services of America for a free instant quote, and see how affordable piece of mind can be.

And we’re not just talkin’ turkey!

Halloween Fun Facts

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:30:00 +0000

Orange and black are Halloween colors because orange is associated with the Fall harvest and black is associated with darkness and death.

Jack o’ Lanterns originated in Ireland where people placed candles in hollowed-out turnips to keep away spirits and ghosts.

Tootsie Rolls were the first wrapped penny candy in America.

Halloween candy sales average about 2 billion dollars annually in the United States.

Chocolate candy bars top the list as the most popular candy for trick-or-treaters with Snickers #1.

Halloween is the 2nd most commercially successful holiday, with Christmas being the first.

Monster Trivia & Folklore

**************************

Signs of a werewolf are a unibrow, hairy palms, tattoos, and a long middle finger.

Vampires are mythical beings who defy death by sucking the blood of humans.

In about 1 in 4 autopsies, a major disease is discovered that was previously undetected.

Halloween Movie Details

**************************

'Halloween" was made in only 21 days in 1978 on a very limited budget.

The movie was shot in the Spring and used fake autumn leaves.

The mask used by Michael Meyers in the movie "Halloween" was actually a William Shatner mask painted white.

The character Laurie Strode, played by Jamie Lee Curtis was named after John Carpenter's first girlfriend.

While the setting for the story is in Illinois, the license plates on the vehicles have California plates.

Halloween is on October 31st, the last day of the Celtic calendar. It was originally a pagan holiday, honoring the dead. Halloween was referred to as All Hallows Eve and dates back to over 2000 years ago.

What is spookier than ghosts and goblins? Not having adequate health insurance!

Call the experts at Insurance Services of America for all your travel medical and short term health insurance needs!

Insurance Services of America

800-647-4589

Who's the friendliest in the sky?

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:58:00 +0000

One of my favorite travel websites just conducted an informal poll of its readers and asked which was their favorite airline. Below are the top 10:

10. USAirways
9. Virgin America
8. AirTran
7. Alaska
6. United
5. JetBlue
4. Delta
3. American
2. Continental
And the winner is:
1. Southwest

So what puts Southwest ahead of the pack? Is it their fares, customer service, or maybe the fact that they are the only airline on the list that does not charge a baggage fee?

Tell me, dear readers, what is your airline of choice, and what makes them so?

One random commenter will receive a set of shiny new ISA luggage tags!

BE PREPARED FOR ANYTHING WHEN YOU TRAVEL

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 19:19:00 +0000

I just read and interesting article from the travel experts at Fodor’s. Last week, their art director found herself on the tarmac in Munich headed for Barcelona with absolutely no cash, no credit card, and no ATM card. All had been left in her camera case that was still hanging on the back of a stall in the ladies room near the departure lounge. Luckily, she arrived in Barcelona and was able to borrow money from friends while waiting for a new credit card to arrive.

But what if she had not had friends waiting for her in Barcelona? What if she's lost her passport as well? In a genuine emergency, when you have no cash or passport on hand, what would you do? It always helps to know where to turn in the event that your trip goes bad, especially when you're abroad and may not know anyone where you are traveling. Luckily, there are some simple things you can remember that can help you turn a travel disaster into something much less terrible. Take a tip from the experts with some simple steps toward safeguarding your travel plans:

1. Make copies of everything. Make color copies of your passport, credit cards and ATM card (both front and back), and your driver's license. If you lose these things, it's much easier to get them replaced if you have a good copy.

2. Know your bank's policies. Would your bank be able to mail you a replacement credit or ATM card immediately? Does it have branches or offices in the country where you'll be traveling? How about a local contact number? If not, how do you reach them?

3. Know the number and location of the nearest U.S. consulate. If you are traveling abroad, you should always have the telephone number and location of the nearest U.S. consulate, which you will have to visit in person to get a temporary replacement passport in the event that yours is lost or stolen. It's usually possible to get an emergency passport within 24 hours.

4. Get travel insurance. Insurance Services of America’s clients are provided with a 24 hour assistance help line. They can help you with an emergency cash transfer or can find the nearest consulate or an English-speaking doctor; even help you rebook flights if you miss a connection.

Some folks think they just don't need travel medical insurance. They figure they are healthy and won't need it. Unfortunately you never know what can go wrong when you travel, and when you're in a different country, small inconveniences can become tremendous problems.

When you are covered by a comprehensive travel medical plan from Insurance Services of America, in addition to being covered for medical emergencies, you'll have access to travel assistance 24 hours a day. We can help locate and return your lost checked baggage, help with cash transfers, make last minute changes to your itinerary, refer you to doctors, lawyers, aid in the replacement of lost prescriptions, and much more.

Don't get caught without adequate travel insurance!

Call the fine folks at Insurance Services of America for a great plan that won't break the bank.

800.647.4589

Buy Trip Insurance Separately From Your Trip Provider

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:47:00 +0000

Check out this article I just read on Clark Howard's web page:

Buy Trip insurance separately from your trip provider
Trip insurance policies should always be purchased when you are taking a cruise, a tour or traveling on a trip that requires pre-payment of thousands of dollars.

Such policies are designed to protect consumers by giving them refunds in the event of illness to the traveler or an immediate family member. They also provide a refund in the case of company, tour operator or airline default.

Consumers should always purchase a policy independent of the cruise, tour or vacation planner. Never purchase the trip protection plan from the trip organizer. Those types of policies are designed to protect only the company and not the consumer!

At Insurance Services of America, we know that you should buy your travel insurance separately from your trip provider. Otherwise, if your trip provider goes belly up, your Trip insurance does too! The Round Trip plan from Insurance Services of America is specifically designed to protect your financial investment and cover you against default by your airline, cruise line, tour group etc. There is even an optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' benefit in case you can't make it on your trip. In addition to protecting your vacation plans, there is coverage for lost baggage and personal effects, and emergency medical expenses including repatriation.

So do what the experts suggest and give us a call. We'll help you get comprehensive coverage and still leave you with plenty of spending money for souvenirs!

800.647.4589

Going to the Dang Airport???

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 21:05:00 +0000

Last week The Independent newspaper in London released its list of the weirdest airport names. Among my favorites:

Batman Airport, Turkey

Useless Loop Airport, Australia

Moron Airport, Spain

Eek Airport, USA

Pickle Lake Airport, Canada

Deadhorse Airport, USA

Dang Airport, Nepal

Mafia Airport, Tanzania

Asbestos Hill Airport, Canada

Deception Airport, Canada

Rifle Airport. USA

Danger Bay Airport, USA

Even if your travel plans do not include Danger Bay or Mafia airports, you still shouldn’t fly without adequate

Travel Medical Insurance!

Call your friends at Insurance Services of America

800.647.4589

"Ancient Chinese Secret, huh?"

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:10:00 +0000

The Department of State has issued a strong warning against travel to China, and has recommended that all travelers purchase Trip insurance.

Current quarantine measures in China include placing arriving passengers who exhibit fever or flu-like symptoms into seven-day quarantine. Although the proportion of arriving Americans being quarantined remains low, the random nature of the selection process increases the uncertainty surrounding travel to China. The selection process focuses on those sitting in close proximity to another traveler exhibiting fever or flu-like symptoms or on those displaying an elevated temperature if arriving from an area where outbreaks of 2009-H1N1 have occurred.

We have reports of passengers arriving from areas where outbreaks have occurred (including the U.S. and Mexico) being placed in precautionary quarantine simply because they registered slightly elevated temperatures.In some instances, children have been separated from their parents because either the parent or the child tested positive for 2009-H1N1 and was placed in quarantine for treatment. This situation presents the possibility of Chinese medical personnel administering medications to minors without first having consulted their parents.

The Department of State has received reports about unsuitable quarantine conditions, including the unavailability of suitable drinking water and food, unsanitary conditions, and the inability to communicate with others.Travelers to China are reminded that all foreign travelers, including U.S. citizens, are obliged to follow local procedures regarding quarantines and any other public health-related measures. The U.S. Embassy will be unable to influence the duration of stay in quarantine for affected travelers. The Chinese government will not compensate people for lost travel expenses.

Travelers to China are urged to consider purchasing Travel insurance to protect against losses in the event they are quarantined.

For more information on U.S. Government policy during a pandemic, and for travel safety information, please see the State Department’s “Pandemic/Avian Influenza” and “Remain in Country” fact sheets on http://www.travel.state.gov/. Further information about 2009-H1N1 Influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, can be found at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/, the U.S. Government pandemic influenza website at http://www.pandemicflu.gov/, and the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html.

Subscribe to our RSS feed to be updated on the latest travel warnings.

It doesn't matter if you are traveling to China or Chattanooga, you should never leave home without adequate Travel Insurance.

Call the experts at Insurance Services of America to find the right plan for you without costing a bunch of Renminbi....

800.647.4589

Tour Operator Disappears Along With Trip Insurance

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Fri, 15 May 2009 16:54:00 +0000

This morning I came across an unfortunate story out of Austin TX.

It seems a group of high school students had planned a trip to France with their class. The kids worked after school jobs to pay for their trip, and even purchased the trip insurance. However now, the tour group they utilized has suddenly gone bankrupt. Their website has been taken down, and they have seemingly disappeared.

Good thing they had trip insurance, right?

Not exactly. Because the students purchased their trip insurance from the tour operator, their trip insurance is gone too. The article went on to quote a representative from a different tour company, who said it is always a good idea to buy trip insurance from a third party .

Before you book your next vacation, call the experts at Insurance Services of America to find the right trip insurance plan for you. We offer low cost, comprehensive trip insurance policies that will protect you in case your carrier or tour operator defaults.

After all, if you had just spent 3 years saving for a vacation, you'd want to protect your investment, right?

TSA issuing new rules for air travel

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Wed, 13 May 2009 20:14:00 +0000

Security changes at airports could affect whether you can get on a plane starting next week.

By May 15th, 2009, the TSA will require your full name, first, middle and last on your ticket.

Until now, only your first and last name got you on a plane, but come May 15, the name on your reservation must exactly match the name on your driver's license or passport.

"Everything has to match," said Bethanne Harrison-Brown of The Travel Authority. "If it doesn't match, if it's not in there, you cannot check in. You will be denied."

According to the TSA, the new rules were being phased in gradually. On their website, the TSA says minor discrepancies, such as the boarding pass missing the passenger's middle name or only using the middle initial, would not cause a problem over the past few months. However, any travel that passengers book from May 15th on should be an exact match.

The new rules apply to domestic flights only, although the TSA indicates that the rules are being gradually introduced, since many travelers in the coming weeks may not have known about the new requirements. Passengers on international flights will be required to comply later in the year.

Also, by August 15, you'll be required to give the airline your date of birth and your gender. In order to cash in on frequent flier miles, the name you use on them has to be the same as the one on your ticket. It's a big paperwork hassle, say many travelers, but they say it's the world they're used to living in.

Feel like you're forgetting something? Use this handy dandy checklist!

a Print any airline itineraries or hotel confirmations. This will allow you to confirm your travel details and will serve as documentation should any problems arise.

a If you are going on vacation, research your destination and make a loose itinerary of sites you want to see. If traveling for business, it is still a good idea to familiarize yourself with the area you are traveling to.

a Check the Weather Forecast for your destination so that you pack appropriate clothing and raingear.

aAttach an identification card to your luggage with your contact information. If your luggage is in a popular style, tie a colorful ribbon or bandana around the handle so you can distinguish your bags from those of other travelers.

aIf you are traveling for a special event (such as a wedding) or plan on visiting a special location (a fancy restaurant or a house of worship), find out what level of dress is appropriate for the event or location and pack appropriately.

aVisit the bank to obtain any cash, traveler's checks or foreign currency you may need for your trip.

a Refill any prescription drugs and purchase and over-the counter medications you will need during your trip.

aCall your bank and credit card companies and let them know you will be out of town. If they see activity on your credit/debit card in another city or country, they may think it has been stolen and cut off access your card. Tell them where you are going and how long you are staying.

aBuy TRIP INSURANCE!

This Little Piggy Went to Mexico...

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 21:55:00 +0000

Travel season is upon us. Churches are preparing for mission trips, Summer is just around the corner, it's the start of the honeymoon season and Mexico is one of the most popular destinations for newlyweds. Although the outbreak situation in Mexico calls for caution, not alarm, it has greatly impacted the travel industry and vacationers everywhere.

It is important to prepare instead of panic.

(Remember SARS, Mad cow, or bird flu?)

The CDC reports that each year, approximately 36,000 people die from Influenza, and not the Swine variety.

So what are the symptoms of Swine Flu?

· Fever (greater than 100°F or 37.8°C)
· Sore throat
· Cough
· Stuffy nose
· Chills
· Headache and body aches
· Fatigue

There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Still planning your trip? Remember to purchase your Trip insurance within 10 days of making your travel arrangements and you can take advantage of our Cancel for Any Reason benefit.

Already booked your trip? A Travel Medical plan from Insurance Services of America will cover you in the event of any illness, including emergency medical evacuation, if needed.

Don't let fear keep you from completing your travel plans. Know the facts, wash your hands, and buy Travel Medical insurance.

It's a dirty world...

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 20:59:00 +0000

Did you know...Hygiene comes from the name Hygeia, the Greek goddess of health and cleanliness

For Foreign Nationals visiting the United States, our International Travel Medical Plans use the Hygeia Network.

For U.S. Citizens traveling outside the United States, there is NO network!

The human body is home to some 1,000 species of bacteria. There are more germs on your body than people in the United States.

Ewwww. What a yucky thought! I guess that is why so many people get sick when traveling overseas.
Another reason why you should ALWAYS invest in Travel Medical Insurance!

Monks of the Jain Dharma (a minority religion in India) are forbidden to bathe any part of their bodies besides the hands and feet, believing the act of bathing might jeopardize the lives of millions of microorganisms.

I guess it's a good thing they're monks.

Ancient Egyptians and Aztecs rubbed urine on their skin to treat cuts and burns. A key chemical in urine is known to kill fungi and bacteria.

A Travel Medical plan from Insurance Services of America will cover the necessary expenses to transport you to the nearest medical facility qualified to treat you

~ not with urine, we promise…

Excrement dumped out of windows into the streets in 18th-century London contaminated the city's water supply and forced locals to drink Gin instead.

Perhaps this is why they say “Don’t drink the water” !

TV kills! University of Arizona researchers determined that television remotes are the worst carriers of bacteria in hospital rooms, worse even than toilet handles. Remotes spread antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus, which contributes to the 90,000 annual deaths from infection acquired in hospitals.

And I don’t even want to THINK about the remote controls in hotel rooms!!!

It is now believed President James Garfield died not from the bullet fired by Charles Guiteau but because the medical team treated the president with manure-stained hands, causing a severe infection that killed him three months later.

And you thought Urine was gross!!!

Let the experts at Insurance Services of America protect your health and investment with a quality Travel Medical Plan.

It’s a dirty World out there, but don’t let the fear of illness or injury keep you from exploring it!

Useless But Interresting Travel Trivia:

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 18:58:00 +0000

On average, Americans spend five times more of their time in their cars than they do on vacation.

Approximately 20% of Americans have a passport.

The city of Las Vegas has the most hotel rooms in the world.

One American in four has yet to ride in an airplane. As for the three out of four who have, most have flown several times.

For every person who prefers an aisle seat, there are three who prefer windows.

While the average cost of air travel is about $60 per hour, using an air-phone during that plane trip can cost as much as $160 per hour.

Statistically, traveling by air is the safest means of transportation.

Atlanta's Hartsfield Airport handles more than 73 million passengers a year, making it the busiest airport in the world.

Ten percent of frequent fliers say they never check their luggage when flying.

The tail section of an airplane gives the bumpiest ride.

Odds that you'll be killed by a plane falling from the sky: one in 25 million. Odds that it will happen today: 1 in 7 trillion.

A Houston-area travel agency, offers an all-nude flight to Cancun Mexico. Once the plane reaches cruising altitude, you are allowed to take off all your clothes and roam about the cabin.

44% of hotels allow pets in their rooms

78% of cats never travel with their owners

The airplane Buddy Holly died in was called the “American Pie”

American Airlines saved $40,000 in 1987 by eliminating one olive from each salad served in first class.

The world's first passenger train made its debut in England in 1825.

A Boeing 747's wingspan is longer than the Wright brother's first flight.

The largest plane in the world is the Russian An-225 Cossack. It has a length of 275 feet 7 inches, a wing span of 290 feet, and maximum takeoff weight of 1,322,770 pounds

The automatic pilot in the movie “Airplane” was named OTTO

TWA was the first airline to introduce regular in flight movies starting with By Love Possessed in the first class section during a scheduled internal flight from New York to Los Angeles on 19th July 1961.

Insurance Services of America has been featured in American Airlines magazine “American Way”

How old is this plane?

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 18:33:00 +0000

You've thought of everything. Laptop, snacks, magazines, mp3 player... Everything you need for an enjoyable airplane ride. But have you considered the things that could go wrong?

I know, I know, you don't want to think about that kind of stuff, who does? Especially when you are about to go on vacation.

Thankfully, your friends at Insurance Services of America have thought of it for you, so you can just sit back and enjoy your trip.

A Trip Insurance plan from insurance Services of America will protect your vacation investment in case you get sick or injured, and help out if your airline is delayed, or loses your luggage, or even goes bankrupt. If you have to cancel or delay your trip, a trip insurance plan from ISA will cover those non-refundable expenses. We'll even cover your medical care and emergency evacuation, and help you find appropriate hospitals and doctors when you travel abroad.

So go ahead, relax and enjoy your trip. Once you've purchased your Trip Insurance plan from ISA, you can rest easy knowing that you, your family, and your travel investment are covered.

800-647-4589

How I spent my Spring Break...

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 16:25:00 +0000

Dear Mom and Dad,

Spring Break is a blast, wish you were here. The ocean is just beautiful, and the water is so clear you can almost see the jellyfish before they sting you. Boy those little suckers really hurt! I think I might remember where I left my wallet, too. I sure hope so, cause for the past few days I have been existing on a diet of Chicklets that I purchased from one of the roadside natives here. I tell ya, people can be very friendly to tourists. Just yesterday, some people told me to take a hike. I thought that was very nice of them to suggest recreational activities. Unfortunately, since the airline lost one of my bags on the way down here, I didn't have my hiking boots, and when that lizard bit my ankle, it hurt almost as bad as subsequently falling down that hill.

Thankfully, my friends were able to assemble a makeshift stretcher to help me get back to the main road, and boy were we ever relieved when that nice man in the truck came by to give us a ride to the clinic. At least, I think it was a clinic. I mean, there were cots there with a bunch of sick people laying on them, and I really think that if we had waited just a little longer, someone would have assisted us eventually. I'm really not sure. I was kind of beginning to pass out from the pain and none of the people dressed like nurses spoke English. My buddy had his translation dictionary with him, and although he tried to get help, it seems the clinic wouldn't treat me unless I paid them first. Unfortunately, they did not accept Chicklets.

Don't worry about me though, my foot is still black but I am beginning to get the feeling back in my toes which is certainly a good thing when you're sleeping outdoors. There are some crazy insects around here! I sure wish the hotel wouldn't have lost my reservation.

You know what mom and dad? I've been thinking about how you told me to get Trip Insurance from Insurance Services of America. I guess I didn't think I would need it, but it sure would have been nice to have someone who could have gotten me a new hotel room, or some emergency cash when I lost my wallet, or bought me some new boots, or paid the clinic so they would treat me and get me back home safely. Just like you would have done yourself if you were here. For under 2 bucks a day, a travel medical plan could have protected me and given you peace of mind, too. But don't worry about me, mom and dad! I think I might be coming home soon. I found a company that does medical evacuations, and although it is a bit costly, at least I'll be safe. And I promise, I will totally pay you back the Fifty Thousand Dollars just as soon as I can.

See you guys soon,

Your Son.

What are you Doing?

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:06:00 +0000

I admit, I am addicted to Twitter.

Someone recently asked me what one does on Twitter, and all I could say was,
"I don't know, you just check in..."

Maybe the beauty of Twitter is it's simplicity. You log on, learn what someone is making for breakfast, get a tip on how to calm your baby's cough, and leave a tid bit of your own. In today's fast paced world, sometimes it is just nice to slow down and throw a thought out into the cosmos. I personally enjoy seeing what the celebrities are doing. Jimmy Kimmel Twitters while taping his show, and even takes questions from fellow Twitterers to ask his guests. Recently, a guest at an Academy Awards party was Twittering pictures from the shindig. While at the edge of my computer seat, I watched what major Hollywood A-listers were eating, wearing, and doing, and
it.
was.
Awesome.

Mostly, I enjoy following fellow travel enthusiasts like myself. I discover groups with similar interests, and always pick up some useful tips. Check us out on Twitter!

Just don't forget to continue reading my blog, too!

Inadequate medical care overseas

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 16:07:00 +0000

Don't risk getting injured overseas without

Travel Medical insurance!

Call the experts at Insurance Services of America for an instant quote!

800.647.4589

Good thing Santa had Trip Insurance!

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 18:37:00 +0000

Twas the night before Christmas and at the North Pole,
The Holiday hustle was taking it's toll.
The elves were all busy finishing the toys,
As Santa prepared to visit good girls and boys.

Mrs. Claus in the kitchen had a list of her own
To make sure her husband would come safely home.
First aid kit, water, extra reindeer snacks,
A second warm jacket and red furry slacks
A map and a compass, chapped lip medication
His passport and visa, and documentation
But what was the most important thing in his sleigh?
His insurance card from the elves at ISA.

She thought it would be difficult, but found that it’s not,
Applied online and printed out her cards on the spot.

Santa told Rudolph, “Its time, let her rip!”
And took off for the night on his annual trip
They started in England, and worked through the night
On rooftops and chimneys, they continued their flight .

When suddenly out of nowhere it rose,
A star even brighter than old Rudolph’s nose!
It blinded the reindeer, they started to shudder.
Santa fell from the sleigh landing right in the gutter!
The reindeer were freaking, looking through Santa's sack
They found the insurance card Mrs. Claus packed.
With no change for the phone, as one might expect,
they found a number on the card that said call collect.

They told them, “Don’t worry, you’re in excellent hands”
Sometimes things happen that weren’t part of your plans~
We’re here to help you in any situation
Travel assistance, medical care, even evacuation.

Soon Santa recovered and was back on his way,
Thanks to the affordable travel medical
plan from his friends at ISA!

You never know when you might get injured or sick.
It can happen to anyone, even Saint Nick.

Cruise Value Center Customers Left Suddenly Adrift

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 20:56:00 +0000

One of the largest online cruise suppliers in the United States has folded, and given us another reason why you should always invest in trip insurance, and only through a reputable insurance company. I am always talking about how you should never purchase your travel insurance form a tour operator or travel agent, and here is yet another reason why:

The 14-year-old cruise retailer Cruise Value Center has shut down abruptly. It appears they have literally closed their doors, and walked away. Over the last few days, worried clients of Cruise Value Center have come to realize their ship has sailed along with their travel dollars. The links on their website no longer work, either, and although the site is still up, it's basically inoperable. Cruise Week's Special Edition today notes insider reports saying as much as $3 million dollars in customers' money never made it to the cruise lines!

You're probably thinking "I hope those people were smart enough to buy trip insurance to cover that." Guess what. They thought they were smart enough. But now there are reports that an additional $1.5 million dollars in customers' insurance payments never made it to the insurer, either! The insurer for Cruise Value Center has sent out a letter to over 1500 customers, explaining that their policies, believed to be in force by the consumer, were actually null and void, and cancelled for non-payment by the online cruise company. It's too soon to know all the details, but early indications are Cruise Value Center took these peoples' money and has now left them with no vacations, no money refunded, and no recourse other than through the judicial system. Keep in mind; this was one of the largest online cruise suppliers in the US.

If you purchase trip insurance from your travel agent our tour operator, and that travel agent or tour operator goes belly-up, naturally your coverage does too, but when you do business with a reputable agency like Insurance Services of America, you can be assured that you are dealing with honest, trustworthy folks who have been providing quality service for over 38 years.
Let the experts at Insurance Services of America show you how easy and affordable it can be to protect yourself and your investment if your tour operator should happen to sink.

Smooth Sailing… from your friends at Insurance Services of America

Dream Vacation Turns Into a Nightmare

insuranceservicesofamerica@gmail.com (ISA Brokers) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:03:00 +0000

Britt Leis and Leah Koehn’s trip of a lifetime came to a frightening halt when they were attacked on a beach in Ecuador. Leis, 35, was stabbed 18 times, and Koehn, 24, was assaulted but able to seek help.

Probably one of the last things we think of when planning a trip is travel medical insurance. When traveling out of country, it should be the first. A recent traveler’s survey indicated that over 22% of Americans traveling internationally reported they have been the victim of some type of crime during their travels. According to a report on NBC, 1 in 4 Americans have reported assaults while traveling abroad.

U.S. based health insurance offers limited coverage outside the states and no coverage for medical evacuation which can easily run in the tens of thousands. Medicare and Medicaid do not provide payment for medical care outside the U.S. and regular health insurance does not pay for medical evacuation from a remote area or from a country where medical facilities are inadequate. When interviewed, the FBI agent that presided of Mr. Leis' case urged travelers to purchase one of the short-term health and emergency assistance policies designed for travel abroad. Also, make sure that the plan you purchase includes medical evacuation in the event of an accident or serious illness.

After 3 surgeries in Ecuador, Leis was stable enough to be evacuated by medical ambulance stateside at a reported cost of $55,000.

Insurance Services of America offers a variety of travel medical insurance plans to fit your budget, and coverage includes hospitalization, emergency evacuation, repatriation, and much more. Give us a call so we can show you how affordable peace of mind can be.

Explore your world, we’ve got you covered.