Friday 26 July 2013

Children travelling abroad

Your children travelling with other people?


We usually recommend our clients that if they have children travelling abroad, to have them carry a consent letter.  This document will prove that the person responsible for your child/children have the legal right to make major decisions on their behave.



If your children travels with a group or event with a custodial parent, it is recommended to have a consent letter to facilitate the travel.

Every situations are unique, so we recommend that you talk to a professional like a lawyer for the proper advise.

Having one does not guarantee their entry to another country, but in lots of country it will be required.  You can also have the letter certified, with the signature of an official that has authority; like a commissioner of oaths or a lawyer.


Remember, if your are not travelling with your children, extra precautions should be taken and the responsibility of your children should be evident.


Here is an example:  

Consent letter from the Government of Canada.


Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !


Wednesday 24 July 2013

Make sure you know what things cost...

...before you start shopping!


Now that you are all ready to leave, you should make sure you are up to date with the exchange rate of the country's currency. 

I found this site, it is pretty easy to use, plus it's always up to date, with the current exchange rate anywhere in the world, from the Bank of Canada.


Why not take a minute to get your numbers right, before you start shopping.  This is a great tool that we recommend to our frequent travellers.


So if you are a shopper, you will be able to know right away, if you are getting a deal!



Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !


Sunday 21 July 2013

Credit Card travel insurance coverage....

I am already covered by my credit card?


But are you??     Know the limitations! 

Be sure to read all the policy and the fine print, better know now then later.

You may want to pay particular attention to the following elements:

-  Travel duration; as many plans has maximum days.

- Emergency Medical Care Coverage; check for eligibility requirements, as you may only be covered if your condition as been stable for more than 6 or 12 months.

- Trip Cancellation or Interruption; check for limits.

- Baggage; very low maximums

Travel smart, don't get stuck in fine prints, make sure you have complete and affordable coverage.  

Know exactly what you are covered when travelling!


Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !




Wednesday 17 July 2013

Medical care in US for travellers!

What you should know, before you leave!


How expensive is medical care in the US for travellers?  Those numbers are scary.  Especially when we know I much it could cost.  Maybe we don't know....?

We just had a client, in winter 2013, that has been going to Florida for over 32 years.  Never had an issue, never visited a doctor neither an hospital will travelling, until now.


Any records has to be broken, so 2013 was the year.  After an overnight, with just a few basic test, to then be release in the morning.  They couldn't find anything, it might of just been fatigue and sun, said the doctor.


All that for a low cost of over 34 000$ US.  Yes, you read it right!


Thanks to their optimal coverage the cost to the client was ZERO, but it was a scary ordeal for the clients, they were 72 & 76.  They couldn't believe the cost. They heard how expensive it was in the US.


Now they fully get why they have been purchasing Travel Insurance for the last 32 years.



Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !


Thursday 4 July 2013

Happy 4th of July celebration!

Let's celebrate!!


We Canadians, we just celebrated our own country, a few days ago.  They were lots of celebration, outdoor concerts and fireworks.

Today, We would like to wish all our neighbour down south and those who are travelling to  Canada, a very nice 4th of July celebrations.  There should be plenty of traditional parades, festivities and fireworks displays around the country for this July 4th holiday!  


Let's get the sun out and enjoy our day!!!



Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !


Tuesday 2 July 2013

Convenient 10-Year ePassport Available Now for Canadians!

The NEW ePassport!


Have you heard the latest news for Canadians?  If you are about to leave the country or your passport is due.  

Can't wait to see it.  In the long run, it will cost less for Canadian to keep their passport active.  It will provide better value for Canadian at $160 for the 10 years.

A photo is yet to be seen.  Will keep you posted on a picture.


The new, 10-year ePassport provides more convenience for Canadians, and facilitates safe, secure travel which, in turn, helps create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for Canadians,”said Minister Kenney. The Canadian passport is not only a privilege of citizenship, but a reflection of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.


Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !


Plan ahead when going thru the borders?

Do you plan on crossing the border this year?  


You might want to check this before you leave or on your mobile as you get closer to crossing.

If you are like most of us, when we decide to go thru the borders by car, we always time our way there, by the time we leave.  Here is a great site, from our government, that gives us an idea of the wait at the U.S. to Canada Border Wait Times.  

This could take away a bit of stress out of your vacation!
- Share with your friends!


Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !