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Travel Insurance for Canadian Travellers, Canadian Snowbirds & Visitors to Canada including Super Visa Insurance and Working Visa Insurance. 

** We specialize in Pre-existing conditions. 

Speak with an Expert at Optimal Travel!

Happy Travelling from Optimal Travel™!!

Learn more about OptimalTravel.ca!  

What's important questions to ask, for Travel Insurance...?

** 3 questions that should be on top of your list:

IMPORTANT questions to ask when assessing a Travel Health Insurance Plan:

• Covers pre-existing medical conditions. Get an agreement in writing that you are covered, or you could find your claim “null and void” under a pre-existing condition clause.

• Provides direct payment of bills and cash advances abroad so you don’t have to pay out of your own pocket.

• Covers emergency transportation, such as ambulance services and does not exclude or significantly limit coverage for certain regions or countries you may visit.

Here is a few more FAQ on Travel Insurance Coverage.

Happy Travelling....#OptimalTravel!

Medical Questionnaire & pre existing condition in Travel Coverage

What if something goes wrong...?  

If you travel; you might want to watch!

http://www.cbc.ca/marketplace/2012/trippedup/index.html

(Copy & paste to watch)

* CBC took " Travel Insurance " seriously enough to do an undercover report!!!

We believe that knowledge is Power.  

Happy Travelling....#OptimalTravel

EXPIRED? NEED TOP-UP INSURANCE?

Expired Medical Travel Insurance? 

Staying longer then anticipated!

Sometimes, plans doesn’t go as planned.  Expect the unexpected!  No one wants to think that our travelling plans could change in a heartbeat, but they do. 

Your vacation was that awesome, that you decided to stay longer…but what about you medical insurance; will it permit you to change your plans?  Or will you have to come back home as planned?

Most travel insurance companies will not accommodate those changes.  For most, you need to be in Canada to buy medical insurance.  They will not change your policy date or protection; if you are still out-side of Canada.  So for most travellers, this could mean the end of thinking of changing their plans.

But they are some insurance companies that are willing to assist you.  Even if you didn’t’ purchase your insurance policy with them, or even if you had you policy as part of your group insurance at work.  They will offer top-up travel insurance coverage.

Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !

Travelling documents for Canadians.

Do you have your documents in order?

So many times, we hear about travellers that are confused and frustrated because they don't have the right travelling documents.

No more guessing games, make sure you have all the the right document in your possession when travelling.

With your passport and your travel insurance certificate, you are sure to have the proper documents in hand.  We also recommend that you bring another source of picture ID, like a valid drivers licence.

If you travel abroad, especially out of north America, most hotels will require your passport before they began check-in.  So have it ready!

If you plan on purchasing big tickets items, you could also be asked for more identifications, like your passport.

Also, don't forget to bring a credit card, I would actually recommend 2.  Don't keep them at the same place in case you lose one.  This way you will always have a back up plan.

Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !

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 !

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 !

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 !

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 !

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 !

Why should I buy Travel Health Insurance coverage?

Why not...?

Whether you travel frequently or occasionally, travel insurance protects you during your trip anytime and anywhere, in case of medical and family? Emergencies, travel delays or theft?  Your government health insurance plan coverage is very limited while traveling outside of your province of residence and out-of-Canada.

Just for those who are not sure what would happen if you go to emergency for an overnight, and get a      34 000$ bill, who will pay....?

Sorry to say, but you are 100% responsible for the bill, even if you have to dig in most or all of your savings.  

If their is insurance, you shouldn't skip on, it's travel health insurance.

For as low as 25$, you can get your personalize instant travel insurance quote!

Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !

What's more important when you travel via airplane...?

Price or else...?

Just read an article that got me thinking.  When I book a flight, other then the price, what is the more important think I look for in a plane?  Food served, leg room, will I have isle or window seat, own tv screen or a share one, plug for my laptop....?  It seams that all aircrafts and flights provider have it different.  Here is what one airlines is doing...American Airlines

What would you prefer, if you had to choose your to 3 top preferences, when flying, what would it be...?

Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !

Have you heard about GateGuru...?

Cool App!

If you are travelling a bit, this might be an app that can be useful.  It offers quite a few options and features.  As the "JourneyCard" offers you a detailed itinerary.   Also, the AirportCard, you can quickly access amenity information, maps, weather forecasts, airports tips and much more!  

If you have a chance to check it out, let us know what you think!  
GateGuru App

Happy Travelling...from #OptimalTravel !