The Perfect Autumn Escape: Scandinavia

It looks as though the October sun has come to an end, which means the return of the umbrellas, gloves and winter coats. But all is not lost, half term week is just around the corner and for those of you who want to enjoy one last break before the year is out then Scandinavia may be the answer. October is a great month to visit the Scandinavian countries, which include Denmark, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, as the weather is still warm and prices for hotels and flights have dropped since the summer months. The tourist numbers have also slightly dropped, which means a lovely relaxed environment free from the summer crowds. There is such a variety of things to see and do in Scandinavia, so there really is something for everybody!

One of the most appealing features of Scandinavia in the autumn is the nature, particularly in the northern parts where the foliage comes out and creates some beautiful scenery (the perfect backdrop for some photo opportunities.) There are several events during the autumn which are very appealing to tourists. These include the Octoberfests in Norway, Sweden and Iceland, where tourists can celebrate the annual beer event and experience some traditional bands, folk music and lots of food. Copenhagen’s famous Halloween event which takes place in the Tivoli Gardens, is a great event for all ages to enjoy as it includes a mixture of children’s activities, market stalls and amusement rides.

In the run up to Christmas everybody is feeling the financial strain, and so Scandinavia can offer some fantastic things to see and do which won’t blow your budget. City cards are a popular travel discount card available in the main city centres which offers free public transport and free admission into a variety of museums, boat tours and popular attractions. Some of the best sights in the region are all free to see, including Kronborg Castle in Denmark and the Turning Torso in Sweden. One of the most popular and famous sights that attracts tourists are the natural phenomena of the Northern Lights which can be seen best in the region of the Arctic circle in Iceland and Northern Norway.

Comparing all flight, hotel and insurance prices is the best way to ensure that you are getting the most for your money when visiting Scandinavia. By doing this before you travel, you will still be able to experience what the region has to offer on a budget that will not break the bank before Christmas.


Mondial Assistance - The Travel Insurance that wants to help

Medical Costs Abroad

Cost for treating a common cold abroad? Over £230...

Did you know that even medical treatment for simple problems could cost a huge amount more abroad than it does in the UK? According to our latest research, something as common as ear pain from swimming could cost as much as £285, whilst a bite or a sting from a sea creature could be another £260.

Many people believe the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which replaced the E111 form a few years ago, will get them free treatment and medication abroad. Unfortunately it doesn’t work like that – the EHIC only entitles you to medical treatment at the same cost as a local resident, which is rarely free, and does not cover repatriation or private treatment. Therefore, without travel insurance to complement the EHIC you could end up with a massive medical bill if you do fall ill abroad. We’re not just talking about €20 here and €40 there; it could cost hundreds, thousands or in some serious cases even millions of pounds.

Illnesses or problems which can ordinarily be treated with over the counter medication for under £10 in the UK may require a doctor’s appointment and a costly prescription in another country. Even the simplest problems can see medical attention run into hundreds of pounds, such as conjunctivitis costing over £180.

Whether you’re planning a trip abroad for business or pleasure, make sure you read the terms and conditions of the travel policy you intend to purchase before you part with any cash.  What appears to be a bargain purchase may contain some unwelcome surprises, such as £200 policy excess.

People who take mild medications with them on holiday for pre-existing medical conditions such as migraines or hay fever should be extra careful.  If they forget to pack them it could be a very costly mistake as medical costs incurred for pre-existing conditions are not always covered by travel insurers. For example, asthma sufferers should ensure they pack a duplicate prescription and keep it separately in case the original is lost or mislaid.  A replacement prescription could cost as much as £950.

A bit of pre-planning and careful packing should help avoid spending half your holiday budget on hay fever or asthma medication, or even simple painkillers. But accidents and illness can occur even on holiday, and it’s always best to be prepared and protected by a good travel insurance policy to avoid being left out of pocket.

For more information on the EHIC and what it does and does not cover, visit NHS Choices online: http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/Introduction.aspx

Mondial Assistance - The Travel Insurance that wants to help

Bored of the Beach?

With the holiday season in full flow many people have now stopped worrying about the bikini diet and are looking forward to their impending holiday.  For some, two weeks of pure sun and relaxation on a beach is the perfect holiday, but others want to do a bit more with their time off.

Going abroad for the summer is a great opportunity to experience some of the amazing culture and different traditions that other countries have to offer. What better way to experience this first hand rather than looking at what the internet or travel brochures have to offer.

If you are looking for an alternative and interesting way to spend your summer, here are a few of our favourite ideas:

·         Try a walking Safari in Zambia, where you can feel, smell and hear the wildlife instead of just seeing it.

·         Go in through the knees at the Corpus Museum of the Human Body in Amsterdam and come out at the eyes. See what really goes on inside the human body.

·         Take the Stockholm Ghost Tour if you dare and visit some of the most haunted streets in history.

·         See the Ice Man in Bolzano, Italy where legend has it that he fell asleep almost 5,000 years ago and got covered by ice.

·         Take a different kind of museum tour in Paris at the museum of sewers.

·         Get hands on with the wildlife at Paul’s Place, Kangaroo Island in Australia.

·         Experience an underwater adventure at the Utter Inn (Otter Inn) in Sweden, where the fish will be the other hotel guests.

·         Try your hand at Brazilian cooking in Rio de Janeiro and impress your friends and family back home.

·         Go deep into the beautiful caves at Waitomo, New Zealand which are covered in glow worms.

·         For a bit of different beauty therapy, go to the noodle baths in Tokyo where the noodle soup is believed to be great for the skin.

Make sure that before you set off on your holiday that your travel insurance covers you for any activities that you wish to take part in. Then all you need to do is prepare yourself for the wonders that await you on your travels.

Mondial Assistance - The Travel Insurance that wants to help