Travel Update - March 2020- Corona virus
On behalf of the Great Escapes Travel family, we wish to thank you for your patience as we deal with the stress and confusion caused by the COVID-19 virus.
Although it remains a very fluid situation, some clarity is starting to materialize so that we can offer you intelligent advice and information on which to base your decision to delay, cancel or to go ahead with your confirmed travel plans. Our airline, tour, cruise and hotel vendors are dealing with your situation as quickly and as professionally as they can, given the circumstances. Firstly, they have been taking itineraries in date order, mainly concentrating on March and April first as these are the most difficult to manage due to the shortness of time prior to departure. Keep in mind that many of these changes are both necessitated and coordinated with government mandates and prudent health challenges that are being announced on a daily basis. Most tour companies and cruise lines have adopted new policies – some giving peace of mind to those traveling May 1st and onward, allowing for later final payments and cancellation up to 48 hours in advance without penalty. Many of you have had your impending trip already resolved (or it is in the process), and we have been very successful in taking your calls and emails and helping you to make the most logical decision, no matter what that might be. We have every confidence in our Virtuoso and non-Virtuoso vendors to continue to assist our valuable customers with their options. Questions and concerns should be communicated directly to your travel advisor by phone or email.
In addition, please keep in mind that we have been through several situations since the beginning of this century that have taught us how to deal with adverse conditions. We have the utmost confidence in all of our inside staff and independent contractors alike to help guide you through this process. We also realize that many of you have been with us since 2001 and that we have your trust in our service and dedication to our clients.
We urge you to keep apprised of all of the great incentives that may soon be announced for travel in 2020 and 2021. It will be our pleasure to discuss any and all of your future plans as we hopefully soon get worldwide travel kick-started again in our great country. We wish for you all to have very safe and meaningful travel experiences. We are hoping that everyone comes through this time safe and sound.
Greg King - Great Escapes Travel Advisor