Overseas Travel Advisor

Buy Trip Insurance Separately From Your Trip Provider

2009-07-13T09:47:00.000-07:00

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???

2009-06-29T14:05:00.000-07:00

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?"

2009-06-25T11:10:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-15T09:54:00.000-07:00

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

2009-05-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

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...

2009-04-28T14:55:00.001-07:00

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...

2009-04-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

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:

2009-04-02T11:58:00.001-07:00

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?

2009-03-16T11:33:00.001-07:00

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...

2009-03-12T09:25:00.000-07:00

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?

2009-03-05T09:06:00.001-08:00

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

2009-01-22T08:07:00.001-08:00

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!

2008-12-11T10:37:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-12T12:56:00.001-08:00

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

2008-10-28T14:03:00.000-07:00

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.

Save Money This Holiday Travel Season

2008-10-15T12:42:00.000-07:00

With today’s tough economy your Holiday travel plans might be changing. Although you’ve probably found that ticket prices for Thanksgiving or Christmas travel are significantly higher than last year, it’s not too late to find a reasonable fare. Over the next few weeks, I will be providing tips on how to save a little cash during these times, without putting a damper on your holiday cheer.

1. Avoid flying on the busiest days:
Holiday ticket prices are 25 percent higher than they were in 2007, with the average price for a Wednesday-to-Sunday itinerary a whopping $460 round-trip.Merely delaying your return until Monday could save you $80 on average, and you’d save an additional $63 by waiting to fly home until Tuesday. For Christmas travel: Avoid departing on Saturday, Dec. 20, or returning on Sunday, Dec. 28, and you could save $25-$40 per ticket.

2. Drive to (or from) an alternate airport:
For example: There are 10 percent fewer seats this November on flights from Gainesville, Fla., compared with last November. And, not surprisingly, the fare on a sample peak trip to Phoenix for Thanksgiving weekend is a sky-high $572 round-trip. An alternate approach would be to drive to a nearby airport. The fare from Jacksonville to Phoenix is just $466, and from Orlando it’s only $351. Just be sure to factor in the cost of gas, tolls and parking so you’re not squandering all of your savings on the road.

3. Watch carefully for price drops:
Fares during the holidays tend to be more unpredictable than at other times of the year, with price reductions of $15 or more happening 50 percent more often. So it’s a good idea to watch the fares daily and buy your tickets during one of these decreases, when it’s possible to save $100 or more per person.
Since airlines typically release only a few seats at the lowest prices at a time, book quickly if you see that a fare drop is taking place. That will help ensure that you’re not shut out by other travelers who are also trying to snatch up that low fare before the price goes up again.

4. Don’t wait too long before booking:

The trick with booking holiday travel is to wait long enough that you can enjoy the treat of price drops — but not so long that seats at the lowest fares are sold out. Bottom line: If you haven’t bought your Thanksgiving ticket yet, now’s the time to start watching for price drops; book your trip as soon as you feel comfortable with the fare, even if it’s higher than last year.

5. Plan for the unexpected:
Getting sick or injured while away from home can be financially devastating. Travel Medical Insurance is a small price to pay when you consider the costs of a medical evacuation. Trip insurance can reimburse you if your bags are lost, or if your flight gets delayed or cancelled. Cancelled flights and congested Holiday travel could leave you stranded. Let the experts at Insurance Services of America help you safeguard your Holiday Travel plans at a price that won’t leave you saying “Bah Humbug.”

INSURANCE SERVICES OF AMERICA

800.647.4589

For 38 years, SERVICE is our middle name.

Airlines announce plans to cut flights

2008-09-24T11:17:00.000-07:00

The airlines have given us yet another reason why you should never travel without trip insurance. Below is a list of popular carriers and the percentage of flights they are planning to cancel this season.

AirTran Airways: Plans for capacity to fall 7 percent to 8 percent between September and December.
Alaska Airlines: Its parent company has said the carrier’s fourth-quarter mainline capacity will be cut by 5 percent compared with 2007.
American Airlines: Plans to cut its U.S. flying by up to 12 percent after the busy summer travel season ends.
Continental Airlines: Its plans include reducing flights in the U.S. this fall by about 10 percent.
Delta Air Lines: It has said it intends to cut domestic capacity by 13 percent during the second half of the year. A spokeswoman said a good portion of that would come during the fall.
JetBlue Airways: It has said it expects September capacity to be down 10 percent and does not expect to grow next year.
Northwest Airlines: It is planning to cut fourth-quarter consolidated domestic capacity by 7 percent to 8 percent.
United Airlines: Fourth-quarter mainline domestic capacity will shrink 16 percent compared with the previous year.US Airways: It will reduce capacity 6 percent to 8 percent on domestic flights in the fourth quarter.
Source: The Associated Press

Insurance Services of America has a policy to fit any traveler's needs and budget. They even include travel assistance benefits so if you get stuck, we'll get you on a different flight. Save yourself the headache and hassle. Call the pros at Insurance Services of America when planning your next trip!

INSURANCE SERVICES OF AMERICA
800-647-4589
SERVICE
is our middle name!

British Travel Company Collapses:

2008-09-12T11:25:00.001-07:00

September 12, 2008. British Travel Company Collapses

SOURCE:Air Security International

Spokesmen at XL Leisure Group Plc announced the company has gone into administration on 12 September 2008, stranding thousands of travelers around the world. British Civil Aviation Administration officials stated that approximately 89,000 travelers who used the XL airline and travel agency will need to make other travel arrangements as the company will be unable to continue operating. An announcement on the XL Website cited rising fuel costs and a slowing economy as reasons for the financial collapse. XL Airways officials announced that all scheduled flights have been canceled and the company's aircraft will be unable to operate. TUI Travel Plc, a rival tour company based in Europe, announced that the firm will try to assist stranded travelers with making alternate travel plans.

Insurance Services of America policyholders: if you had a flight booked with an XL Airline, be sure to call the 24 hour travel assistance number on your ID card. Representatives are standing by to provide you with the astonishing travel assistance services outlined in your policy, such as book you on a different flight, get you a hotel room, emergency cash, and more.

You just never know what might happen while you travel; that's why you shouldn't leave home without adequate coverage. Call the experts at Insurance Services of America when you plan your next trip and see how affordable peace of mind can be.

800.647.4589

Insurance Services of America:

SERVICE

is our middle name!

Fish to the face? Yeah, we cover that, too...

2008-09-09T10:21:00.001-07:00

So you're getting ready to take your trip, and you might be thinking you don't need trip insurance. It's a short trip, you're in good health, what's the worst that could happen?

Well, that's what trip insurance is for; to cover those unforeseen occurrences. The stuff you never thought would happen. Take for example, the story of Seth Russel, courtesy of the Associated Press:

LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas - A teenager's jaw was broken when a fish flew from the lake where he was riding in an inner tube and smacked him in the face.
Seth Russell, 15, was cruising Lake Chicot in Arkansas on a large inner tube towed by a boat when a Silver Asian carp leaped from the water and hit him in the face. Seth was knocked unconscious.
"He doesn't remember anything at all," the boy's mother, Linda Russell, said last week. "He was laughing, and the next thing he remembers, he is waking in a hospital."

The teen has had oral surgery to wire several teeth together and still experiences back pain that doctors attribute to whiplash from the high-speed collision, his mother said.

Don't let a fish to the face ruin your vacation. Call the trip insurance experts at Insurance Services of America help you select an affordable plan to cover those 'What's-the-worst-that-could-happen" moments...

800.647.4587

Service is our middle name, And THAT'S no fish story.

What you need to know about comparison websites:

2008-08-04T09:38:00.001-07:00

When discussing Trip Insurance options, I’m often asked about those comparison websites that show numerous different insurance companies to help you choose a plan. The problem with sites like these is that the choices can be overwhelming, and unless you are an insurance agent, you might not know exactly what you’re looking at. Do you know the details of the plan? The policy maximum, the benefits and the loopholes? Do you know your insurance company’s AM Best rating?

Sometimes there can be such a thing as too many options.

That’s why at Insurance Services of America, we represent only the most highly rated and reputable companies out there. We won’t sell a mediocre plan and we won’t confuse you by throwing in a lot of ‘fluff’ that you don’t need. Furthermore, we’ll never ask for your name, email address, or any other personal information just to give you a quote.

Trip Insurance and Travel Medical Insurance is becoming more and more popular, as airlines continue to go bankrupt, flights are cancelled, or unforeseen illnesses interrupt our vacation plans. If you are traveling internationally or closer to home, there is no better time to consider protecting your travel investment with Trip Insurance.

When you visit our website, you can rest assured that we have selected the best travel insurance companies out there, and if you prefer to speak to a live person, we’re here to help.

Give us a call at 800.647.4589 to speak to one of our friendly knowledgeable agents.

Do one thing and do it right, that’s Insurance Services of America.

Your Airline is Going to Change This Summer...

2008-06-06T11:55:00.001-07:00

This busy summer travel season, with all the airline mergers and alliances, overpaid executives and frustrated employees, you need to prepare yourself, because air travel is changing right before your eyes. Carriers are desperate to shrink their operations and bankruptcy fears are resurfacing.Here are some of the changes to the airline industry that you the passenger should be prepared for this summer:
You could experience a whole host of new delays. Airlines trying to adhere to self-imposed passenger rights, fuel prices, and cutbacks are bound to foul up that on time arrival that you counted on. What if you miss your connection? Will you have to shell out even more money for a new flight?
With airline executives making record salaries and front-line employees’ paychecks being slashed, management has informed their workers that fuel prices have hastened the need for cost-cutting measures yet again. You will get very few sympathetic employees doing more than their absolute bare minimum. What’s more, an industry that used to see employees start careers at a young age and stay until retirement is seeing senior executives make statements such as, “We’re not looking for people to make this a career any longer, this is just a job.”
Don’t expect amenities such as a pillow or a blanket. From additional check-in bags, to aisle seating, nothing is off-limits when it comes to chargeable items. With fuel at historic levels the airlines are pulling no punches when conserving oil. This could affect you in several different ways such as no running water for washing your hands before take-off, longer wait times at the gate, and possible flight cancellations for lack of connecting passengers.
Now you might be rethinking that trip altogether, but here is a way to protect your investment and not miss out on your vacation… Trip insurance.
Check out our trip protector plan and how it works:

For a very small percentage of your trip cost, trip protector will safeguard your travel plans in case something goes wrong.If your trip insurance is in effect for at least 14 days prior to departure, you will be covered in the event of airline default or bankruptcy. Good to have in a time when airlines are going belly up left and right and without any warning. Additionally, if you purchase trip insurance within 24 hours of making your final trip payment, pre-existing conditions are covered too.Other coverage includes emergency medical and dental expenses, lost luggage, emergency cash, missed connection, trip cancellation and trip interruption, just to name a few.At Insurance Services of America, we have a variety of plans to fit your needs and budget. Call one of our agents today at 800-647-4589, or click here for an instant quote or to apply online.

These are uncertain times, and a small investment in trip insurance can save you a fortune in the long run.

Short Term Health Plan, no proof of citizenship required!

2008-05-07T11:47:00.000-07:00

BUENOS NOTICIAS!
GREAT NEWS!

The AMIGO Short Term Health Plan is now available in Espanol!
That's right, now you can get the same great Short Term plan in Spanish.
You'll still get the same benefits, including:

*EZ Decline question

*EZ Major illness question

*GENEROUS weight maximums

*OK issue for high blood pressure or cholesterol

*OK issue for Mental or Nervous disorders

*$50 Urgent care visits, not subject to deductible

*Bilingual customer support

*Very competitive rates, and a 2 Million Dollar policy maximum from an A+ rated carrier

*NO PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED!

When you apply online for the Amigo Short Term Plan, just request electronic issue and you can download and print out your policy and Id card instantly.
Your Friend in Short Term Health Insurance~ That's why we call it The AMIGO!

Another Airline Folds. Why you need Trip Insurance now more than ever:

2008-04-09T10:38:00.001-07:00

First it was Aloha Airlines, then ATA, then Skybus. American Airlines Cancelled 500 flights yesterday for maintenance.

In the course of five days, tens of thousands of passengers are left stranded, unable to get home. The others have just discovered their vacations are never going to happen.

On the Skybus Web site yesterday was a brief announcement saying the airline had ceased operations because of rising jet-fuel costs and a slowing economic environment. The note said people with reservations should contact their credit-card companies for refunds. Passengers who paid cash are just plain out of luck. One scuttled Skybus passenger said he had been quoted $2,000 for a last-minute ticket home to Ohio.

This is when you can be glad you had the foresight to purchase trip insurance.

However, as with all policies, it is important to read the fine print. Skybus insurance policies covered things such as the illness of a traveler, inclement weather, and in policies sold after March 5, airline-caused delays and cancellations. But Skybus did not include “default" — going out of business — as one of the circumstances covered by the insurance.This is why it is also important to make sure you purchase your trip insurance from a reputable insurance company focused on getting you the most comprehensive coverage available. The kind of customer service and coverage that you will not find from an airline, cruise line, or travel agent.

At Insurance Services of America, we have trip insurance and travel medical insurance that will cover you weather your destination is Istanbul or Idaho, and everything in between. If your luggage gets lost, or you miss your connection, or if your trip gets cancelled for whatever reason, including airline default or bankruptcy, we've got you covered.

Call one of our friendly knowledgeable agents today at 800-647-4589 to find out more about this very affordable coverage. Wherever you go, we'll get you home.

Canada Introduces 10 Year Passports

2008-03-04T11:14:00.000-08:00

TORONTO, March 4

Starting in 2011, Canadian travelers will be issued a higher security electronic passport that will be valid for 10 years instead of the current five.
Canadian citizens are required to present a passport to enter the United States when arriving by air or sea from any port of the Western Hemisphere.
Although not strictly required to carry a passport at this time, Canadians
entering the U.S. by land are required to present proof of identity and
citizenship such as a driver's license combined with an original birth
certificate.

Accordingly, the Canadian federal government is developing an alternative secure travel document for short-term travel to the United States. Ottawa will spend $6-million over two years to support enhanced provincial drivers' licenses that will, for the first time, list a driver's citizenship.
This new license will help people living in border communities conform to the U.S. Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, which requires the use of a secure travel document at land crossings by June, 2009.
The federal government has also pledged to invest $14 million over the next two years to expand the joint Canada/United States NEXUS program by adding dedicated infrastructure, increasing the number of users from 160,000 to 350,000 and better targeting frequent travelers.

Now that you have gotten your Canadian Passport out of the way, it's time to focus on your travel medical insurance, since Provincial government health insurance plans do not cover full medical expenses outside Canada, 80-90% of any medical bills will usually be your responsibility.

At Insurance Services of America, we have a variety of Travel Medical options to suit your needs. Let one of our friendly, experienced agents help you decide which of our affordable plans is right for you. You may compare plans online or give us a call at 800-647-4589.

Tips for Traveling Abroad

2007-11-28T08:49:00.000-08:00

Planning a trip overseas?

Take some tips from the United States Department of Travel:

Register your travel plans with the State Department through a free online service at https://travelregistration.state.gov/. This will help them to contact you if there is a family emergency in the U.S., or if there is a crisis where you are traveling. In accordance with the Privacy Act, information on your welfare and whereabouts will not be released to others without your express authorization.

Sign passport, and fill in the emergency information: Make sure you have a signed, valid passport, and a visa, if required, and fill in the emergency information page of your passport.

Check your overseas medical coverage: Ask your medical insurance company if your policy applies overseas, and if it covers emergency expenses such as medical evacuation.

Obtaining medical treatment and hospital care abroad can be expensive, and medical evacuation to the U.S. can cost more than $50,000. Note that U.S. medical insurance is generally not accepted outside the United States, nor do the Social Security Medicare and Medicaid programs provide coverage for hospital or medical costs outside the United States.

At Insurance Services of America, we can provide you with comprehensive overseas medical coverage, including hospital stays, dental emergencies, trip interruption, evacuation and repatriation, and much more. Call Adam or Mark at 800-647-4589 to answer any questions you might have. You can even apply online and print out your ID cards on the spot.