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Source: http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/posts/default

1. <?xml version='1.0' encoding='UTF-8'?><?xml-stylesheet href="http://www.blogger.com/styles/atom.css" type="text/css"?><feed xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom' xmlns:openSearch='http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/' xmlns:blogger='http://schemas.google.com/blogger/2008' xmlns:georss='http://www.georss.org/georss' xmlns:gd="http://schemas.google.com/g/2005" xmlns:thr='http://purl.org/syndication/thread/1.0'><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590</id><updated>2024-02-19T04:45:56.138+00:00</updated><category term="specialist travel insurance"/><category term="epilepsy travel insurance"/><category term="medical conditions travel insurance"/><category term="pre existing medical conditions travel insurance"/><category term="travel medical insurance"/><category term="Best MS travel insurance"/><category term="Cerebral Palsy travel insurance"/><category term="Dystonia travel Insurance"/><category term="Free Spirit travel insurance"/><category term="Holiday insurance for disabilities"/><category term="MS holiday insurance"/><category term="MS medical travel insurance"/><category term="Mental Health travel insurance"/><category term="Multiple Sclerosis travel insurance"/><category term="OCD Travel Insurance"/><category term="Parkinson’s travel insurance"/><category term="Penile Cancer holiday insurance"/><category term="Pre-existing medical condition travel insurance"/><category term="Prostate Cancer travel insurance"/><category term="Serious Medical Condition Travel Insurance."/><category term="Serious medical conditions"/><category term="Testicular Cancer medical travel insurance"/><category term="barcelona travel insurance"/><category term="budapest travel insurance"/><category term="cancer travel insurance"/><category term="cover for medical aids"/><category term="cover for medical conditions"/><category term="dementia travel insurance"/><category term="disabilities travel insurance"/><category term="eating disorder travel insurance"/><category term="no upper age limit travel insurance"/><category term="skiing travel insurance"/><category term="specialist medical travel insurance"/><category term="tips when travelling"/><category term="travelling to the Caribbean"/><category term="travelling with a wheelchair"/><category term="tunisia travel insurance"/><category term="turkey travel insurance"/><category term="valentines weekend break"/><category term="winter sports insurance"/><title type='text'>Free Spirit travel insurance</title><subtitle type='html'>Free Spirit travel insurance blog. Specialist travel insurance for people with pre-existing medical conditions and disabilities with no upper age limit.</subtitle><link rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#feed' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/posts/default'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/'/><link rel='next' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default?start-index=26&amp;max-results=25'/><author><name>DC</name><uri>http://www.blogger.com/profile/11158144213537815458</uri><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><generator version='7.00' uri='http://www.blogger.com'>Blogger</generator><openSearch:totalResults>93</openSearch:totalResults><openSearch:startIndex>1</openSearch:startIndex><openSearch:itemsPerPage>25</openSearch:itemsPerPage><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-7193698532817859749</id><published>2016-01-28T15:07:00.001+00:00</published><updated>2016-01-28T15:17:38.367+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Top tips to prevent your winter sports holiday from going downhill! </title><content type='html'>There is something quite magical about snow as it covers the imperfections of the landscape and builds your expectations for the day ahead on the slopes. Crisp, white flawless snow in the morning sunrise has to be your favourite time of year if you are a winter sports fan.  &lt;br /&gt;
2. <br />
3. However, if you are a non-skier or you have a medical condition that restricts your activities, you may prefer to just experience the tranquil surroundings of snow covered mountains in the comfort of a log chalet with a crackling, heart-warming fire.<br />
4. <br />
5. Whatever type of winter sports holiday you are planning whether it be hitting the slopes for skiing and snowboarding, dog sledding, snow walking or a gently sleigh ride, you would probably prefer not to think about how it could go downhill should something go wrong. <br />
6. <br />
7. To help avoid injury resulting in expensive medical costs, here are some winter guidance tips provided by the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Foreign & Commonwealth office</a>.<br />
8. <div>
9. <br />
10. <a name='more'></a><b>Know your limits</b><br />
11. <br />
12. Alcohol affects your resistance and awareness of the cold, and also impairs your judgment, co-ordination and reaction time. Drinking alcohol at altitude will affect you more quickly and most insurers will not pay out if you injure yourself or others whilst intoxicated. So, know your limits and don’t take the risk.<br />
13. <br />
14. <b>Use of helmets</b><br />
15. <br />
16. Wearing a helmet is a personal choice but more and more people are choosing to wear them. In some resorts it is a legal requirement for children to wear helmets. Remember, many travel insurance policies require you to wear a helmet on the slopes regardless of the local legal requirements, so check the policy wording for any exclusions applying to winter sports.<br />
17. <br />
18. <b>Goggles and sun cream</b><br />
19. <br />
20. The sun is much stronger at altitude, so appropriate strength sun cream should be worn. When it comes to eye protection there are two main options; ski goggles or sunglasses. Always ensure goggles or glasses offer 100% UV protection.<br />
21. <br />
22. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7gZwacWN_NHQZfKQdYjv2HpNt0SnMFm9c6hYIJRHYcxzXaglJ8vnTOsuvoiUZLlMeG4CKoZuAdkE6BNEOyvfCeq66CClpabJpUQC-tvXGjxO2rPsVxK1H1cvY89Kth9bCjM07f5bINhA/s1600/bigstock-Senior-man-and-women-being-pho-12631442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7gZwacWN_NHQZfKQdYjv2HpNt0SnMFm9c6hYIJRHYcxzXaglJ8vnTOsuvoiUZLlMeG4CKoZuAdkE6BNEOyvfCeq66CClpabJpUQC-tvXGjxO2rPsVxK1H1cvY89Kth9bCjM07f5bINhA/s640/bigstock-Senior-man-and-women-being-pho-12631442.jpg" width="640" /></a><b><br /></b><br />
23. <b><br /></b>
24. <b><br /></b>
25. <b><br /></b>
26. <b><br /></b>
27. <b>Be at your peak</b><br />
28. <br />
29. Get fit so you can enjoy your holiday. If you are not physically prepared you are more likely to injure yourself. Warm up and do stretches before and after any activities.<br />
30. <b><br />European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)</b><br />
31. <br />
32. Travelling in Europe? It’s essential that you take a valid EHIC with you. If you have an accident or become ill, it will allow you to receive state-provided medical healthcare at reduced cost, or sometimes free.<br />
33. <br />
34. Check your EHIC is in date - it needs renewing every 5 years, so if it has expired apply for a new card prior to travel. The EHIC is valid in the European Economic Area and Switzerland, but you still need to take out travel insurance as an EHIC won’t cover all your medical costs, private treatment or return to the UK. Some insurers now insist that you hold an EHIC.<br />
35. <br />
36. <b>Buy Winter Sports Travel Insurance</b><br />
37. <br />
38. We know thinking about travel insurance is likely not to be at the top of your priority list; however when it comes to taking part in winter sports activities are you prepared to take the risk?<br />
39. <br />
40. Free Spirit has made it as simple as possible to get the cover you need, even if you are doing a few different winter sports activities when you are away. We can include cover for a range of winter sports activities on payment of an additional premium. <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/whats-covered.aspx#wintersports" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Click here</a> to view activities included in the Free Spirit Winter Sports cover option. Please note, you must ensure that your usual treating G.P. is happy for you to participate in any winter sports activity prior to you participating.<br />
41. <br />
42. Getting a travel insurance quote to cover Winter Sports is quick and easy <a href="https://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/quote/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online</a>, or you can call our Customer Service team on <b>0800 170 7704</b> if you would prefer to speak to a friendly voice.<br />
43. <br />
44. Don’t let a winter sports accident spoil your winter break. Get protected for peace of mind on the slopes!</div>
45. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/7193698532817859749/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2016/01/top-tips-to-prevent-your-winter-sports-holiday-from-going-downhill.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/7193698532817859749'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/7193698532817859749'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2016/01/top-tips-to-prevent-your-winter-sports-holiday-from-going-downhill.html' title='Top tips to prevent your winter sports holiday from going downhill! '/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7gZwacWN_NHQZfKQdYjv2HpNt0SnMFm9c6hYIJRHYcxzXaglJ8vnTOsuvoiUZLlMeG4CKoZuAdkE6BNEOyvfCeq66CClpabJpUQC-tvXGjxO2rPsVxK1H1cvY89Kth9bCjM07f5bINhA/s72-c/bigstock-Senior-man-and-women-being-pho-12631442.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-6748523929542069859</id><published>2016-01-06T11:35:00.000+00:00</published><updated>2016-01-06T11:35:52.111+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Passport changes when travelling to the United States after 1st April 2016</title><content type='html'>A recent update from the Foreign &amp;amp; Commonwealth Office has advised that from the 1st April 2016, all travellers wishing to enter the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Programme will need to hold a passport with an integrated chip. &lt;br /&gt;
46. <br />
47. If you have an old style passport you will need to update it to gain entry to the U.S. so don’t delay, as it may take a few weeks to receive your new one. Find out how to change your passport <a href="https://www.gov.uk/renew-adult-passport" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.  <br />
48. <br />
49. <b>What is the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP)?</b><br />
50. <br />
51. The VWP allows most British Citizen passport holders to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days. The types of journey permissible under the VWP include tourism, certain types of business trips and transit to another country. <br />
52. <br />
53. You may not be eligible to enter the U.S. under the VWP if you have a criminal record or have been arrested, even if it didn’t result in a conviction.<br />
54. <br />
55. Those travelling under the VWP arriving by air or sea should provide details online at least 72 hours before travel. This is known as an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation or ESTA but be warned; if you do not apply for an ESTA you will be refused travel to the U.S.<br />
56. <a name='more'></a><br />
57. <b>What is an ESTA?</b><br />
58. <br />
59. An ESTA is an automated system that assists in determining eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Programme and whether such travel poses any law enforcement or security risk. Upon completion of an ESTA application, a traveller is notified of his or her eligibility to travel to the United States under the VWP.<br />
60. <br />
61. For more information, and to apply online, visit the official <a href="https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ESTA</a> website.<br />
62. <div>
63. <br /></div>
64. <div>
65. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
66. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCx5XkqPhvmJvDRcTBlLYK9QOTfoAqO7nvdXGuZyaYj00HKKnCYHe7iu_Xei-NaXi-NDobB6nMg-aJ-dbQnCcy626HxOdesFS4GzAn2UpLwj7XbOAWaW0JIHnU_I2PEK3g1KVNj0MlQ0/s1600/bigstock-Travel-concept-73253152.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCx5XkqPhvmJvDRcTBlLYK9QOTfoAqO7nvdXGuZyaYj00HKKnCYHe7iu_Xei-NaXi-NDobB6nMg-aJ-dbQnCcy626HxOdesFS4GzAn2UpLwj7XbOAWaW0JIHnU_I2PEK3g1KVNj0MlQ0/s640/bigstock-Travel-concept-73253152.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
67. <br />
68. <br />
69. Further details on the VWP and other aspects of U.S. immigration rules are available from the <a href="https://help.cbp.gov/app/answers/detail/a_id/796/kw/proof%20of%20funds/suggested/1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Customs and Border Protection</a> website.<br />
70. <br />
71. The passport changes are not the only things you need to consider for your next trip to the U.S. especially if you are travelling with a medical condition or children.<br />
72. <br />
73. <b>What are the rules about taking prescription medicines into the US?</b><br />
74. <br />
75. Prescription medications should be in their original containers with the doctor's prescription printed on the container. It is advised that you travel with no more than personal use quantities and a rule of thumb is no more than a 90 day supply.  If your medications are not in their original containers, you must have a copy of your prescription with you or a letter from your doctor.<br />
76. <b><br />Travelling with children</b><br />
77. <br />
78. If a child (under the age of 18) is travelling with only one parent or someone who isn’t a parent or legal guardian, you may be asked to provide certain documents at the border. <br />
79. <br />
80. For more information about travelling the globe along with up to date travel news, check-out the Foreign & Commonwealth Office's <a href="https://www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Know Before You Go</a> website. It has information on all risks to all travellers in more than 255 countries and territories around the world.<br />
81. <b><br />Don’t forget your travel insurance</b><br />
82. <br />
83. For a <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/travel-insurance/single-trip-travel-insurance.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">single trip</a> quote <a href="https://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/quote/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">click here</a> and if you are thinking of taking more than one holiday this year, why not see if we can offer you <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/travel-insurance/annual-multi-trip-travel-insurance.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">annual multi-trip travel insurance</a>. </div>
84. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/6748523929542069859/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2016/01/passport-changes-when-travelling-to-usa.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/6748523929542069859'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/6748523929542069859'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2016/01/passport-changes-when-travelling-to-usa.html' title='Passport changes when travelling to the United States after 1st April 2016'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCx5XkqPhvmJvDRcTBlLYK9QOTfoAqO7nvdXGuZyaYj00HKKnCYHe7iu_Xei-NaXi-NDobB6nMg-aJ-dbQnCcy626HxOdesFS4GzAn2UpLwj7XbOAWaW0JIHnU_I2PEK3g1KVNj0MlQ0/s72-c/bigstock-Travel-concept-73253152.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-972355080604644122</id><published>2015-12-21T13:50:00.000+00:00</published><updated>2015-12-21T13:50:13.279+00:00</updated><title type='text'>  Can winter sun have an impact on my mental health?</title><content type='html'>We all need something to look forward to during the cold dark days of winter and a warming winter break maybe just what the doctor ordered.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The short winter days can affect our mood and cause us to feel a bit down, lethargic or even depressed. This is because the strength of the sun in the UK over the winter months is not as strong or never appears, therefore leaving many of us deficient in vitamin D and serotonin, a chemical produced by the brain to help regulate our mood.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;According to the Met Office, with just 64% of the average sunshine, November 2015 was the dullest in the series from 1929. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Vitamin D also known as the “sunshine vitamin” is essential for keeping a healthy immune system, strong healthy bones and it is suggested to supply a protective effect against multiple diseases such as cancer, diabetes and multiple sclerosis.&amp;nbsp;&lt;div&gt;
85. <br /><div>
86. <a name='more'></a>A burst of sunshine in the depths of the coldest season can bestow significant health benefits and help to banish the winter blues. Booking a holiday can help to ease the stresses and strains of everyday life and as little as 30 minutes a day of sunshine to your face, hands and arms can boost your vitamin levels and keep you topped up.<div>
87. <br /></div>
88. <div>
89. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJTn7q4HKsHpDGOKBP82l-EucgKqfzvIcXexdahdtVDKQVEfeYLTRTr22svBrLSVYk4Wclo3vAREkpHR4c9hILs-34qhdCZNQAauTLmRoNPfZjYnltB-sKtfaBrr-XL25ZnwNAWJq-lg/s1600/bigstock-Couple-Standing-At-The-Beach-98424761.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJTn7q4HKsHpDGOKBP82l-EucgKqfzvIcXexdahdtVDKQVEfeYLTRTr22svBrLSVYk4Wclo3vAREkpHR4c9hILs-34qhdCZNQAauTLmRoNPfZjYnltB-sKtfaBrr-XL25ZnwNAWJq-lg/s640/bigstock-Couple-Standing-At-The-Beach-98424761.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Some of the tell-tale signs it’s time to book your winter sun holiday:<br /><br /><b>Sallow skin</b> – Is your skin starting to look grey?<br /><br /><b>Low mood</b> – Do you find yourself irritable or feeling low most days?<br /><br /><b>Deeper wrinkles</b> – Have you formed tense muscles around your eyes due to stress?<br /><br /><b>Tiredness</b> – Do you have low stamina from poor sleep or not relaxing enough?<br /><br /><b>Toothache and face pain</b> – Do you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth during the night as a result of tensions carrying over into the day?<br /><b><br />Weight gain </b>– Are you turning to comfort eating because you have nothing else to look forward to?<br /><b><br />Bone and muscle aches </b>– Are you suffering from a lack of Vitamin D?<br /><br />Holidays can have a very positive impact on your mental health and yes most of us need some sort of routine and purpose to our daily pace, but the psychology of having a winter break provides a goal to work towards to get you through the bleakest time of the year. <br /><br />You don’t even need to travel abroad to have a holiday, even if you decide to stay closer to home in the UK, just escaping everyday life, enjoying the great outdoors and doing activities at your pace is good for you mentally & physically. Everyone likes a change of scenery and a slower pace of life is great for the body and mind.<br /><br />Personally I love the sun and a recent trip to Florida elevated my mood and set me up for the winter season but I have to be honest and say, the dark evenings and damp mornings do make me think about booking my next trip. The benefits of sunshine on your body only last a few weeks so it’s worth thinking ahead of where your next trip will take you, in search of winter sun.<br /> <br />Destinations such as the Canaries are good options for families in the winter months or why not travel further to the Caribbean, Thailand or even the Maldives.<br /><br />Winter in the UK isn’t for everyone so why not book a trip in search of warmer climes but don’t forget to pack up your Santa stocking. Let Free Spirit carry the burden of any travel worries you may have, allowing you to get on with re-charging your batteries, topping up your vitamin D and boosting your mood!<br /><br />Happy holidays everyone!<br /><div class="MsoNormal">
90. <span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
91. </div>
92. </div>
93. </div>
94. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/972355080604644122/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/12/can-winter-sun-have-an-impact-on-my-mental-health.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/972355080604644122'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/972355080604644122'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/12/can-winter-sun-have-an-impact-on-my-mental-health.html' title='  Can winter sun have an impact on my mental health?'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzJTn7q4HKsHpDGOKBP82l-EucgKqfzvIcXexdahdtVDKQVEfeYLTRTr22svBrLSVYk4Wclo3vAREkpHR4c9hILs-34qhdCZNQAauTLmRoNPfZjYnltB-sKtfaBrr-XL25ZnwNAWJq-lg/s72-c/bigstock-Couple-Standing-At-The-Beach-98424761.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-9207904498558763069</id><published>2015-12-01T11:00:00.000+00:00</published><updated>2015-12-03T11:52:57.911+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Free Spirit supports World Aids Day 2015</title><content type='html'>&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;
95. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SS0zLyU5rOmeqBd6T4RxtFJAgdD-a0xqci6qe6QPGqsW3aGwpR2RzG07VzJUTviABmjOfBk021W6VMapkbSk5lVxN8lPHrKmpu3fUJbdqG9hH7b7imock8tZ2kyJ1pydkyn3HoH2JF8/s1600/wad.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SS0zLyU5rOmeqBd6T4RxtFJAgdD-a0xqci6qe6QPGqsW3aGwpR2RzG07VzJUTviABmjOfBk021W6VMapkbSk5lVxN8lPHrKmpu3fUJbdqG9hH7b7imock8tZ2kyJ1pydkyn3HoH2JF8/s1600/wad.png" /></a></div>
96. <div style="text-align: left;">
97. World Aids Day is held on the 1st December and is an opportunity for people internationally to stand up & join together to rethink outdated stereotypes, challenge myths and be positive about HIV. </div>
98. <br />
99. According to <a href="http://www.tht.org.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Terrance Higgins Trust</a>, HIV is becoming one of the fasted-growing serious health conditions in the UK with 6,151 new cases diagnosed in 2014 and over 100,000 people living with HIV in the UK alone. However France, Spain and Italy all have twice as many cases than the UK.<br />
100. <br />
101. South Africa has more people living with HIV (nearly 6 million) than any other single country in the world however, there are an estimated 34 million people globally suffering with the disease.<br />
102. <div>
103. <br />
104. <a name='more'></a>More than 35 million people have died from HIV around the world, making it the most destructive disease in history and I think you’ll agree these are staggering facts and shouldn’t be ignored.<br />
105. <br />
106. Free Spirit wanted to show our support for people living with HIV by helping to raise awareness and re-educate people about any prejudices they may have.<br />
107. <b><br />What is HIV?</b><br />
108. <br />
109. HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. The virus attacks the immune system and weakens your ability to fight infections and disease. There is no cure for HIV, but there are treatments to enable most people with the virus to live a long and healthy life.<br />
110. <div>
111. <br /></div>
112. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
113. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2MYUG4kIdm0E-E4bGuX05ExN0Gf97tXXZciygaNKx2cJ7bvv7zV_dp49iIpkL9WJxTAS4qhuYdYO2KxTJOoiWh3bi0ghpK3J4-0ox5znIwETT_L21E9Q0-v26w81qIsVlQIeVBUlqlw/s1600/wad1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv2MYUG4kIdm0E-E4bGuX05ExN0Gf97tXXZciygaNKx2cJ7bvv7zV_dp49iIpkL9WJxTAS4qhuYdYO2KxTJOoiWh3bi0ghpK3J4-0ox5znIwETT_L21E9Q0-v26w81qIsVlQIeVBUlqlw/s320/wad1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
114. <div>
115. <br />
116. <br />
117. <b>How do you get HIV?</b><br />
118. <br />
119. HIV is found in the body fluids of an infected person, which includes semen, vaginal and anal fluids, blood, and breast milk. It is a fragile virus and does not survive outside the body for long.<br />
120. <br />
121. Other ways to get HIV could be using a contaminated needle or, syringe or transmission from mother to baby during pregnancy, birth or breastfeeding.</div>
122. <div>
123. <br /></div>
124. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
125. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJqEAfZmlLEPPEwtvpjFchuHHUnI5UAaYxEc9CyIltGY42rrES4zdKN_eT2j4PSInm5ovwgsDux482ULOAxgjUYIocd7A0G6rOpT79HmpPcPUg6LoI1YaDTZ-mt3cfPvkZiEoeXIbjbk/s1600/wad2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJqEAfZmlLEPPEwtvpjFchuHHUnI5UAaYxEc9CyIltGY42rrES4zdKN_eT2j4PSInm5ovwgsDux482ULOAxgjUYIocd7A0G6rOpT79HmpPcPUg6LoI1YaDTZ-mt3cfPvkZiEoeXIbjbk/s320/wad2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
126. <div>
127. <br />
128. <br />
129. <b>Can I travel abroad with HIV?</b><br />
130. Yes, but make sure you do your research before you book your trip, some countries have restrictions for longer stays or where work permits are involved.<br />
131. <br />
132. Very few countries ban tourists completely with HIV, but they may restrict the carrying of HIV medication even when they have no specific restrictions on the individual.  You should research any destination in advance just to be sure! <br />
133. <br />
134. <b>Do I need specialist HIV travel insurance? </b><br />
135. <br />
136. Buying a specialist travel insurance to cover your HIV and any other associated medical condition(s) will ensure you are protected in case of a medical emergency. No one likes to think something will happen to them when away, but when you HIV there is more of a likely hood that you’ll need medical care should you become unwell.<br />
137. <br />
138. <b>Can Free Spirit Travel Insurance cover me?</b><br />
139. <br />
140. We cover most medical condition including HIV & AIDS and have no upper age limits. As long as your   GP says you are fit to travel, you are not on a waiting list or are awaiting investigations, inpatient hospital treatment or you have knowledge of the need for surgery, inpatient treatment or investigations or you are aware of a medical condition but have not received a diagnosis, we should be able to offer you a <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/"><b>quote</b></a>.<br />
141. <br />
142. Free Spirit believes travelling should be for everyone and we will try our best to offer the peace of mind cover you need. <br />
143. <br />
144. Our <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/information/hiv-and-aids-travel-insurance.aspx"><b>HIV & Aids cover</b></a> has all the top cover limits you will be looking for to ensure not just your health is covered, but your personal belongings and holidays costs as well. <br />
145. <br />
146. If you are thinking of travelling abroad and need the re-assurance your medical condition will be covered, look no further than Free Spirit to set your spirit free!</div>
147. </div>
148. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/9207904498558763069/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/12/free-spirit-supports-world-aids-day-2015.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/9207904498558763069'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/9207904498558763069'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/12/free-spirit-supports-world-aids-day-2015.html' title='Free Spirit supports World Aids Day 2015'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SS0zLyU5rOmeqBd6T4RxtFJAgdD-a0xqci6qe6QPGqsW3aGwpR2RzG07VzJUTviABmjOfBk021W6VMapkbSk5lVxN8lPHrKmpu3fUJbdqG9hH7b7imock8tZ2kyJ1pydkyn3HoH2JF8/s72-c/wad.png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-2410618206970176603</id><published>2015-09-29T11:27:00.000+01:00</published><updated>2015-09-29T11:40:57.316+01:00</updated><title type='text'>Can smoking increase the cost of my travel insurance?</title><content type='html'>If you have a medical condition or disability finding a specialist travel insurance provider can seem like hard work sometimes, especially when some standard policies can’t offer cover. But without adequate travel insurance to cover your medical condition(s), an injury or illness abroad can lead to thousands of pounds in medical bills. &lt;br /&gt;
149. <br />
150. Many specialist travel cover providers assess each customer on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as the date of a customer’s diagnosis and the kind of treatments the customer has had. However there is another factor that can affect the amount you pay for travel insurance and that is smoking! <br />
151. <br />
152. One of the biggest lifestyle risk factors from smoking is that you can be more prevalent to developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease otherwise known as COPD. Stopping smoking is the best way to prevent smoking-related diseases such as COPD, cancers and heart disease.<br />
153. <br />
154. <a name='more'></a>We are constantly reminded of the health dangers of smoking tobacco, as it has serious implications on your health and when it comes to buying insurance on your pocket as well. Specialist insurance providers take the risks posed by smoking very seriously. This can result in increased premiums as smokers can be more at risk of claiming due to illness, compared to a non-smoker.<br />
155. <br />
156. Here's an example of how smoking can affect your Free Spirit premium if you suffer with COPD:<br />
157. <br />
158. Prices are based on a Single Trip policy for an individual aged 46, travelling to Spain for 2 weeks with the following answers (prices obtained from the Free Spirit website on the 29th September 2015):<br />
159. <br />
160. COPD:<br />
161. <div>
162. <br /></div>
163. <div>
164. 1. How many medicines are prescribed for your breathing condition (count each inhaler as one medicine)? </div>
165. <div>
166. <br />
167. <div>
168. 1-2 </div>
169. <div>
170. <br />
171. 2. How many hospital admissions have you had for your breathing condition in the last year? <br />
172. <br />
173. One </div>
174. <div>
175. <br />
176. 3. How short of breath do you get when you are walking on the flat? <br />
177. <br />
178. I get mildly short of breath when I walk 200 yard but do not need to rest. </div>
179. <div>
180. <br />
181. 4. Have you ever been prescribed oxygen other than when you are in hospital? <br />
182. <br />
183. No </div>
184. <div>
185. <br />
186. 5. Have you ever been a smoker? <br />
187. <br />
188. Yes – still smoking </div>
189. <div>
190. <br />
191. 6. In the last year have you had a chest infection or an episode of pneumonia? <br />
192. <br />
193. Yes<br />
194. <br />
195. Respiratory infection: </div>
196. <div>
197. <br />
198. 1. How many episodes have you had that required treatment with antibiotics in the last year? <br />
199. <br />
200. One </div>
201. <div>
202. <br />
203. 2. Has the infection fully resolved? <br />
204. <br />
205. Yes </div>
206. <div>
207. <br />
208. 3. Have you ever been diagnosed with any of the following conditions? <br />
209. <br />
210. None of these<br />
211. <br />
212. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
213. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnRcVPrc_fdheHZFErGegy3Mh8a9i68L3_iq0MHTOKSnGCk1QN2hFRCzGErl1wJwI0LMu1G88tEc6pcQK2slXXeTPkHzvQKVFCcVgQN0nwFwInBjg9_BDnyCrccmYc25i8FRgG0SMV_Y/s1600/smoker.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnRcVPrc_fdheHZFErGegy3Mh8a9i68L3_iq0MHTOKSnGCk1QN2hFRCzGErl1wJwI0LMu1G88tEc6pcQK2slXXeTPkHzvQKVFCcVgQN0nwFwInBjg9_BDnyCrccmYc25i8FRgG0SMV_Y/s1600/smoker.png" /></a></div>
214. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
215. </div>
216. <br />
217. <br />
218. <br />
219. <b>What if I quit smoking – will my premiums go down?</b><br />
220. <br />
221. Yes, they could be reduced by as much as 40% if your answer to the following question is:<br />
222. <br />
223. Have you ever been a smoker?<br />
224. No or gave up 1-10 years ago<br />
225. <br />
226. The premiums are reduced to:<br />
227. <br />
228. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
229. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi31iY5r0jpnX2LPz_IcMcGqK3bKubtdH0tl73IZUDrl0ZOux3tmefkE35WmDOGeCDe51lATOokf2GDYfB5AB1q0q_6xH0i-M4UwvK6e0XtW31tXsIh2V9KlrtTMf1bt6TxWnuFir1VhNA/s1600/non-smoker.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi31iY5r0jpnX2LPz_IcMcGqK3bKubtdH0tl73IZUDrl0ZOux3tmefkE35WmDOGeCDe51lATOokf2GDYfB5AB1q0q_6xH0i-M4UwvK6e0XtW31tXsIh2V9KlrtTMf1bt6TxWnuFir1VhNA/s1600/non-smoker.png" /></a></div>
230. <br />
231. <br />
232. <br />
233. Kicking the habit for at least 12 months is one of the most effective ways of driving down insurance costs.<br />
234. <br />
235. <b>Are you eager to kick the habit but not really sure when to start? </b><br />
236. <br />
237. Well there is no better time than right now. October sees the return of <a href="https://stoptober.smokefree.nhs.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Stoptober</b></a> the public health campaign to help smokers kick the habit. It's based on the belief that after 28 days without a cigarette and with support and encouragement, smokers are five times more likely to give up smoking for good. Go on, you know you want to, <a href="https://stoptober.smokefree.nhs.uk/">sign up</a> today and be smoke-free by the end of October?<br />
238. <br />
239. According to <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/sign-up-to-stoptober-with-friends-family-and-colleagues">GOV.UK</a> research shows that smokers are 67% more likely to quit when their spouse stops smoking, and a third more likely to quit when a close friend or someone they work with stops. The data also shows that individuals are much more likely to smoke if their partner or a close friend smokes, showing the powerful influence that people’s social networks have on their own smoking behaviour.<br />
240. <br />
241. Over a quarter of a million people across the country signed up to Stoptober last year with more than half making it to 28 days. This year, it is expected the campaign will welcome the millionth sign up. By stopping smoking for 28 days you are 5 times more likely to stop for good.<br />
242. <br />
243. Supporting the campaign, Chief Medical Officer Professor Dame Sally Davies said:<br />
244. <br />
245. <i>“Smoking is still our biggest preventable killer: 80,000 people die a year in England because of smoking, and so stopping smoking is the single best thing a person can do for their health.”</i><br />
246. <br />
247. Professor Kevin Fenton, National Director of Health and Wellbeing for PHE also said:<br />
248. <br />
249. <i>“The benefits of stopping smoking are almost immediate: quitters will soon see reduced blood pressure, easier breathing and better circulation. It is one of the best things a person can do to improve their health and reduce their chances of developing long-term conditions and dying prematurely.”</i><br />
250. <br />
251. I’ve never been a smoker and have no idea how difficult it must be to ‘give-up’ especially if you’ve had the habit for a long time. What I do know, is that I would much prefer to have extra money in my pocket because of the reduced travel insurance cost and, just think how much extra you could save over the course of a year from not buying cigarettes, it could be the cost of a holiday!<br />
252. <br />
253. Good luck in your quest to be smoke-free. It will be worth it not just for your pocket but also for your overall health.<br />
254. <br />
255. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
256. <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/quote/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge0Mcme_t9V9sD9Fni6GhkwhcnnTgpwQkc7Pc1VWoKRprkz6f5yA3KzWraHEPKuK75QOyOLSqZ6uPzSERGxtDBHv3uZslRpq_9qRpQnpJNMIws-nfFLuuBDDKzbq3OvW3qK5uKQIrfkl8/s1600/getaquotebuttonhome.png" /></a></div>
257. <br />
258. <br />
259. <br /></div>
260. </div>
261. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/2410618206970176603/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/09/can-smoking-increase-cost-of-my-travel-insurance.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/2410618206970176603'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/2410618206970176603'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/09/can-smoking-increase-cost-of-my-travel-insurance.html' title='Can smoking increase the cost of my travel insurance?'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisnRcVPrc_fdheHZFErGegy3Mh8a9i68L3_iq0MHTOKSnGCk1QN2hFRCzGErl1wJwI0LMu1G88tEc6pcQK2slXXeTPkHzvQKVFCcVgQN0nwFwInBjg9_BDnyCrccmYc25i8FRgG0SMV_Y/s72-c/smoker.png" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-5589156879738271880</id><published>2015-07-02T17:27:00.000+01:00</published><updated>2015-07-07T10:05:58.947+01:00</updated><title type='text'>What does the Greek debt crisis mean for your holiday plans?</title><content type='html'>You can’t get away from hearing or reading the media articles about the current financial situation in Greece. This may be leaving you feeling confused as to how it may affect you if you are travelling to Greece this summer.&lt;br /&gt;
262. <br />
263. <div>
264. Some of your questions may be; Can I get cash from an ATM? What about using my credit card? Will the Greek banks be open? What if I run out of money and don’t have a credit card? If I'm worried, can I cancel my trip?<br />
265. <br />
266. Before you set out, it's worth checking the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Foreign and Commonwealth Office</a> website for their recent updates and advice on travelling to Greece this summer.</div>
267. <div>
268. <br />
269. <a name='more'></a></div>
270. <div>
271. Here are some answers to your questions and a little bit more:</div>
272. <div>
273. <br /></div>
274. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
275. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZppD5NAmJ0IiyGZXjxia-aUCgoBZT0u7-J_d5xhCnEX898MBshK7KCB9DInfL3gNDwC-3HYHX3buC24zW8dwEBJLP_eevjSVpxKrRL5l6KBA2PHwaBSW-hvMVnD4erdda-JDa_naXStY/s1600/iStock_000025570368Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZppD5NAmJ0IiyGZXjxia-aUCgoBZT0u7-J_d5xhCnEX898MBshK7KCB9DInfL3gNDwC-3HYHX3buC24zW8dwEBJLP_eevjSVpxKrRL5l6KBA2PHwaBSW-hvMVnD4erdda-JDa_naXStY/s640/iStock_000025570368Small.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
276. <br />
277. <br />
278. All Greek banks will be closed until at least close of business on 6th July 2015. The Greek government is limiting ATM withdrawals using cards issued by Greek banks to €60 per day. As a foreign traveller at this time, you can continue to withdraw up to your usual limit using a card issued outside Greece, as long as the ATM has been replenished and you are prepared to queue. But there may come a time when the Greek Finance Minister may set a withdrawal limit on foreign bank cards.<br />
279. <br />
280. The system for paying with debit and credit cards for retail transactions continues to function but remember, not all small shops and restaurants may take credit and debit card payments. It’s best not to rely wholly on one method of payment. Although using a card may seem like a good bet, it’s always an idea to have some cash on you in case of emergency. <br />
281. <br />
282. <a href="http://abta.com/news-and-views/news/abtas-statement-on-greece" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ABTA</a> also suggest taking some cash in Euros as well as card payment methods so you're covered for all situations. They also said, "Any changes would be highly unlikely to happen overnight, any switch to a new currency would take time and Euros would likely be accepted in the interim."<br />
283. <br />
284. <div>
285. <br />
286. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
287. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bu3QLUiRL6z5jeWoJsDmpJnKZu4swBNtWVDbmcmZv1gN4cdZjGEL3rzzxrUOUlUo6jMOlGR_5MywSDzS3oIrdNMBJDNl2L_SH-g8Frj1Opoprpc5mzXZyeGPQxo4GDrcEvvdICvGlHg/s1600/iStock_000016899256_Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bu3QLUiRL6z5jeWoJsDmpJnKZu4swBNtWVDbmcmZv1gN4cdZjGEL3rzzxrUOUlUo6jMOlGR_5MywSDzS3oIrdNMBJDNl2L_SH-g8Frj1Opoprpc5mzXZyeGPQxo4GDrcEvvdICvGlHg/s320/iStock_000016899256_Small.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
288. <b><br /></b>
289. <b>To ensure you stay safe and your holiday funds secure when in Greece, we offer the following tips:</b><br />
290. <br />
291. <ul>
292. <li>If your holiday funds are mainly cash Euro’s and more than you would normally take, split this on your person so that if the worst should happen not all funds will be gone. However, don’t ask someone else to carry your cash, if they lose it or it is stolen you may not be insured for it.</li>
293. </ul>
294. <ul>
295. <li>Take extra care at the airport when arriving in Greece and when travelling to your accommodation. This will be when you have the most cash on your person and therefore, pose’s the highest risk of loss or theft.</li>
296. </ul>
297. <ul>
298. <li>Always use a safety deposit box at the accommodation where you are staying to secure your holiday money. If one is not available, ask at reception if they have a safety deposit box you can use but if not, hide funds out of sight in a few different places in your locked accommodation and don’t allow anyone else into your room that shouldn't have access to it.</li>
299. </ul>
300. <ul>
301. <li>Report any loss of theft of cash to the police immediately (within 24 hours) and obtain a full written police report, remember you will need this in the event of a claim.  If you cannot report this to the police, ensure this is reported to another authority, such as hotel management if the loss or theft occurs where you are staying and get a written report from them as proof.</li>
302. </ul>
303. <ul>
304. <li>If you decide to take a day trip do not take large amounts of cash with you.  Just make sure that you have enough money to cater for what you are doing that day.</li>
305. </ul>
306. Free Spirit will always suggest not to carry large amounts of cash on your person at any one time, but we appreciate that the current advice being issued by other sources to those travelling to Greece is quite the opposite, in that it is suggesting travellers should increase the amount of cash funds taken in the event that ATMs and banks cannot be used to withdraw money during a trip. <br />
307. <br />
308. The FCO also advise that there are regular strikes. These are sometimes called at short notice and can cause disruption to public transport in and out of Greece (including air travel and ports). Demonstrations take place regularly in central Athens, and have also taken place in other towns and cities. You should avoid all demonstrations and follow the advice given by local security authorities. See <a href="https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece/safety-and-security" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Major pre-planned strikes and demonstrations</a><br />
309. <br />
310. If you are thinking of cancelling your trip to Greece because of the financial problems you won’t be covered for cancellation. Bob Atkinson of the Travelsupermarket website says 'It’s understandable to be worried, and although it might seem good grounds not to go, changing your mind won’t give you a get-out,' Depending on what type of accommodation you’ve booked, how you paid for it and when you're due to travel, it’s worth asking your Tour Operator if you are able to move the dates or travel destination. <br />
311. <br />
312. If you fall ill when in Greece the <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/about-the-ehic.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">European Health Insurance Card</a> (EHIC) entitles you to free medical care equivalent to what locals can get. This should cover most medical emergencies — but don’t solely rely on it. Holidaymakers have been urged not to rely on their EHIC because Greece’s poor economy has left local hospitals running out of funds and unable to treat some foreigners. The uncertain state of the Greek public services could leave Britons at extra risk. So take extra precautions and buy a travel insurance policy. <br />
313. <br />
314. Free Spirit will not only cover you and your travelling companions but also your medical conditions in the event of a medical emergency also your holiday money, passports and valuables will be protected just in case! Terms and condition apply of course with a policy cash limit per person of £200 (Super cover) and £300 (Super Duper cover)!  <b>Please note:</b> For insured adults travelling to Greece between now and up to 30th September 2015 we have increased the cash limit to £400 (Super cover) and £600 (Super Duper cover). For further details <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/greece.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">click here</a>. <br />
315. <br />
316. It's worth tooling yourself with as much useful information before you travel so that you can be prepared. Keep checking the FCO website when away for updates and if you have any concerns always speak to your Tour Operator or in the event of a claim your travel insurance claims department.<br />
317. <br />
318. With a little advance planning there should be no reason for you not to have a wonderful Greek holiday. </div>
319. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/5589156879738271880/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/07/what-does-the-greek-debt-crisis-mean-for-your-holiday.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/5589156879738271880'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/5589156879738271880'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/07/what-does-the-greek-debt-crisis-mean-for-your-holiday.html' title='What does the Greek debt crisis mean for your holiday plans?'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZppD5NAmJ0IiyGZXjxia-aUCgoBZT0u7-J_d5xhCnEX898MBshK7KCB9DInfL3gNDwC-3HYHX3buC24zW8dwEBJLP_eevjSVpxKrRL5l6KBA2PHwaBSW-hvMVnD4erdda-JDa_naXStY/s72-c/iStock_000025570368Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-5149647026745017872</id><published>2015-04-28T14:00:00.000+01:00</published><updated>2015-04-29T09:16:47.400+01:00</updated><title type='text'>Are your travel costs protected against air traffic control strikes?</title><content type='html'>Read my own personal experience when I took a recent holiday break to Ibiza.  &lt;br /&gt;
320. <br />
321. The recent Easter holidays was an ideal opportunity to book some days out of the office to spend relaxed quality time with friends and family. Working full-time and caring for a young adult with disabilities takes its toll after a while, so a relaxing wind down holiday was just what I needed. <br />
322. <br />
323. As my daughter was pre-booked into respite for the first week of the holidays, I took full advantage and decided to take a trip across the Med. to see my mum in Ibiza, while enjoying some warm Mediterranean sunshine and hospitality.<br />
324. <br />
325. I love the White Isle as Ibiza is fondly known as, but I'm sure you may be thinking something different. Yes you can party all night, sleep all day and get up and do it all over again but to be honest, this is only a small part of the island. Ibiza has so much more to offer and not just for the younger age group. I can’t define what it is about the island that draws me back each time other than to see my mum of course, maybe it’s because it’s so welcoming to everyone and has so much to offer for all generations.<br />
326. <br />
327. Peace and tranquillity can be found all year on this beautiful island, but mine was brought to a grinding halt on the day I was due to fly home. I was rudely awoken by an email from my flight carrier advising my return flight home was cancelled due to the recent French air traffic control strike. I felt slightly panicked as this has never happened to me before. How would you feel if this happened to you?<br />
328. <div>
329. <br />
330. <a name='more'></a>My first thoughts were how will I get home and how much will it cost me. When the shock of not going home on the planned date had passed, I checked my travel insurance policy to see if it would cover me for this unforeseen event. Fortunately it did as I had booked my flights prior to the strike being announced. Peace of mind was restored! Not all travel insurance policies offer cover for delayed departure so it is always worth checking before you buy. <br />
331. <br />
332. My flight carrier offered me either a refund on the original return flight or to change to the next available return flight, free of charge. <br />
333. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
334. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxY2Y6M3dGOPSCdvOfsrrT5Qw_jkvbOsZxtN9mztcb25isHehRXerA-uqh0QjLY41X_zycqrpTfxp-3oJ7FKgwwRLBSu_-OrEuw11JHIis4u4V_iSfwwCkOsUsI9zhyphenhyphenM8XfTz3gJxix8/s1600/iStock_000003169170XSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxY2Y6M3dGOPSCdvOfsrrT5Qw_jkvbOsZxtN9mztcb25isHehRXerA-uqh0QjLY41X_zycqrpTfxp-3oJ7FKgwwRLBSu_-OrEuw11JHIis4u4V_iSfwwCkOsUsI9zhyphenhyphenM8XfTz3gJxix8/s1600/iStock_000003169170XSmall.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
335. We were advised that as soon as the strike was over, airlines would begin to process delayed passengers by booking them onto the first available flights. Unfortunately for me that was 5 days later and I needed to get home. I opted for the refund so I could arrange my return flight with another airline only 2 days later.<br />
336. <br />
337. When my flight had been confirmed I got on with extending my daughters respite stay, car hire and airport parking and better still, start to enjoy the 2 free extra days with mum. As soon as I returned home, I contacted the travel claims department to advise them of the difficulties I had faced and in less than 7 days the additional costs I had incurred were refunded to me, less my excess of course! I could even have received this had I opted for the ‘excess waiver’ option when I bought my policy. This was a small price to pay though considering I could have been severely out of pocket, if I had risked travelling without adequate insurance.  <br />
338. <br />
339. If you find yourself in a similar situation with a strike delaying your flight, the airline has an obligation to offer you assistance – but not compensation. Unlike flight delays for other reasons, airlines are not obligated to offer compensation following a strike because strikes are usually considered to be ‘extraordinary circumstances’. <br />
340. <br />
341. It is always worth remembering that travel insurance policies will not cover you if the strike was announced before you booked your trip. Should it be announced after you have booked but before you travel, you should first contact your airline or travel provider (if you have booked a package) and check out the situation with them. If you find your flight is cancelled, check your travel insurance policy and speak to your insurers to establish the cover provided. Had you booked a holiday knowing there was an air traffic control strike planned for the same travel dates, you are unlikely to be covered should your flight be cancelled. However, if you have already booked your holiday and bought travel insurance before a strike is announced, then your travel costs may be protected depending on the cover your travel insurer provides.  <br />
342. <br />
343. I travel abroad three times a year and never leave the house without having the insurance protection I need just in case! It is easy to think “it has never happened to me so we should be ok”, but a strike can happen at any time and you wouldn’t want to be caught out. How would you feel if you had to arrange a flight back from the USA and you had failed to insure your travel costs, you may find yourself digging deep into your pockets.<br />
344. <br />
345. <div>
346. So, don’t be bowled over by a strike next time you travel. Get your travel costs protected as soon as you book!</div>
347. </div>
348. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/5149647026745017872/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/04/are-your-travel-costs-protected-against-air-traffic-control-strikes.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/5149647026745017872'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/5149647026745017872'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/04/are-your-travel-costs-protected-against-air-traffic-control-strikes.html' title='Are your travel costs protected against air traffic control strikes?'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRxY2Y6M3dGOPSCdvOfsrrT5Qw_jkvbOsZxtN9mztcb25isHehRXerA-uqh0QjLY41X_zycqrpTfxp-3oJ7FKgwwRLBSu_-OrEuw11JHIis4u4V_iSfwwCkOsUsI9zhyphenhyphenM8XfTz3gJxix8/s72-c/iStock_000003169170XSmall.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-7081292265578446390</id><published>2015-03-27T16:12:00.000+00:00</published><updated>2015-03-30T12:24:26.726+01:00</updated><title type='text'>Escape this spring with a weekend getaway</title><content type='html'>With the passing of the winter months finally giving way to mild sunny mornings and tree blossoms, we are starting to see that spring is finally upon us. &lt;br /&gt;
349. <br />
350. Most people are keen to get passed the cold, dark winter months and start enjoying the new lease of life that spring brings. I am looking forward to enjoying the warm sunny days and being able to get out in the fresh air with a ‘spring’ in my step, as the evenings draw out. However, spring is more than just this; it also helps to rejuvenate our wanderlust! <br />
351. <br />
352. For travellers in need of a bit of encouragement what better excuse than the Easter Bank Holiday weekend just a few weeks away. It’s a great opportunity to take a well-deserved break but first, you need to decide where to go and for how long. Maybe an overnight trip in the UK or a long weekend or even a week in Europe is just what you need to get over the winter blues.<br />
353. <br />
354. If you are in need of some spring travel inspiration, here are five European countries to visit:<br />
355. <br />
356. <a name='more'></a><b>England</b><br />
357. <br />
358. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
359. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNITI9A4wu8pbSf0bKVkngUiJ5wPy6X_G4Paa6M8N6KcQeaLsIJrmAHB7xph60fsgg-m5clSS4VS5eNpHnpz_nUcEjtQvBoWvSgemQ5VPLqDvQje6kJh8elfhA6b9t5d3_N4KqLnP5as/s1600/iStock_000039693300Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNITI9A4wu8pbSf0bKVkngUiJ5wPy6X_G4Paa6M8N6KcQeaLsIJrmAHB7xph60fsgg-m5clSS4VS5eNpHnpz_nUcEjtQvBoWvSgemQ5VPLqDvQje6kJh8elfhA6b9t5d3_N4KqLnP5as/s1600/iStock_000039693300Small.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
360. This green and pleasant land offers so many things to see such as; medieval cathedrals, grand manors, quintessential one pub villages and green hills full of vibrant flora and fauna. <br />
361. <br />
362. Spring is a great time to view the stunning sight of English woodland floors adorned with bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta to use the scientific name!) Flowering in late April or early May, they often form a popular seasonal tourist attraction. <br />
363. <img src="file:///C:/Users/jessicab/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image001.jpg" /><br />
364. <br />
365. <b><br /></b>
366. <b>Netherlands</b><br />
367. <br />
368. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqv0UVjANw0k82icTLj6qC7YPWXDNf2aIc7eqwTHa-GSs99APi76S4D8LpgXEPxEZb3kAWOvWv4eOV6WcEez7sXRBTAtNqpfScOplNKWxtW-AGfPyu0qK8FGDLanDN01aETWSb_Z1T8c/s1600/iStock_000012358729Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqv0UVjANw0k82icTLj6qC7YPWXDNf2aIc7eqwTHa-GSs99APi76S4D8LpgXEPxEZb3kAWOvWv4eOV6WcEez7sXRBTAtNqpfScOplNKWxtW-AGfPyu0qK8FGDLanDN01aETWSb_Z1T8c/s1600/iStock_000012358729Small.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a>This beautiful country famed for its windmills and tulips is a must at this time of year. Tulips are in their peak blooming season around mid-April and it extends to the middle of May. Keukenhof in Lisse (also known as the Garden of Europe) is covered by over 7000 bulbs in the spring and is one of the best places to get a good look at many different varieties of tulip.<br />
369. <br />
370. The best way to get around at this time of year is to take the train or bike through the countryside to see the tulips growing and blooming in field after field. From Amsterdam it takes under 1½ hours by train or only 40 minutes or so if you decide to drive.<br />
371. <br />
372. <br />
373. <img src="file:///C:/Users/jessicab/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image002.jpg" /><br />
374. <b>Greece</b><br />
375. <br />
376. White-washed villages, sparkling seas and bright warm sunshine conjur up the traditional image of Greece. There are enough islands to suit everyone’s taste and yet for some people, a trip to Greece is still a lifelong dream. <br />
377. <br />
378. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
379. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdRiaPlRj4cGMsdRywlbaCbdZlLSqhrfEQsaVOKBAFJKXa6xlLr4AsmQV9H21epBMohOlqhAtlQRWPS55ST2IGE-06Xknvcmm5Qq3ZHZeQNlYjhm2LVulpdnRcIHfHeDxNEk-8w41JMI/s1600/iStock_000025570368Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMdRiaPlRj4cGMsdRywlbaCbdZlLSqhrfEQsaVOKBAFJKXa6xlLr4AsmQV9H21epBMohOlqhAtlQRWPS55ST2IGE-06Xknvcmm5Qq3ZHZeQNlYjhm2LVulpdnRcIHfHeDxNEk-8w41JMI/s1600/iStock_000025570368Small.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
380. If hot summer days are not to your liking, Greece will surprise you in the spring. With average daily temperatures of 16c and around 6 hours of sun a day, this is a great time of year to visit.  <br />
381. <br />
382. Dining at a seaside taverna or exploring ancient ruins, a trip to Greece can be done without breaking the bank, especially with the strong pound! Better still, due to the countries financial crisis it is more affordable than ever before, with a great array of last last minute bargain holidays to be had.<br />
383. <img src="file:///C:/Users/jessicab/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_image004.jpg" /><br />
384. <br />
385. <b><br /></b>
386. <b>Austria</b><br />
387. <br />
388. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbeA75aKLOj6-dlDVJ98le299Cu2x4mCgg50-Hd_OCRZ7TA6f1TqCza75AcDMPzSoVltMhvWCcKeF7_rSFSWLweSWSTZbceqB8IISZM1BS7gAfjwD-4bZTtYMRU9tmguH7HkvTuzmJ8w/s1600/iStock_000056312500Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWbeA75aKLOj6-dlDVJ98le299Cu2x4mCgg50-Hd_OCRZ7TA6f1TqCza75AcDMPzSoVltMhvWCcKeF7_rSFSWLweSWSTZbceqB8IISZM1BS7gAfjwD-4bZTtYMRU9tmguH7HkvTuzmJ8w/s1600/iStock_000056312500Small.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a>Austria might not be at the top of everyone's 'wish list', but there is so much more to this country than just mountains and winter snow sports. Apart from strudels and schnitzel, you will find imperial palaces, castle topped medieval towns and old world coffee houses. <br />
389. <br />
390. The alpine region of Tirol is ideal for spring holidays as the countryside is dotted with tranquil villages, magnificent mountain ranges and alpine flora, a vision of delight.<br />
391. <br />
392. The capital city Vienna is one of the most musical cities in the world and a classical music lovers paradise. Great composers such as Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss either lived and worked in the city or were born there. Even better, the average temperature in Vienna in April is higher than in any other province of Austria except for the Burgenland, so definitely worth a visit! <br />
393. <br />
394. <b><br /></b>
395. <b>Croatia</b><br />
396. <br />
397. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmNzjWRP3ddF3JXD1rchDrXbulLwlvrhn_yvOV5Hjv_VxnCMoeI2dMUVNudsbiGPONXkhMnpdZ0T00S74yaI808w2CTuW8ybqXQaWgxwxKlhgvzgwfr7T1SPtsRhpymGtrjRkvZUlDqM/s1600/iStock_000024259017Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixmNzjWRP3ddF3JXD1rchDrXbulLwlvrhn_yvOV5Hjv_VxnCMoeI2dMUVNudsbiGPONXkhMnpdZ0T00S74yaI808w2CTuW8ybqXQaWgxwxKlhgvzgwfr7T1SPtsRhpymGtrjRkvZUlDqM/s1600/iStock_000024259017Small.jpg" height="320" width="237" /></a>April is a great time to visit Croatia as the snow has melted, flowers are budding, daily temperatures are rising and the summer sun seekers have yet to arrive. <br />
398. <br />
399. If you enjoy gazing into glittering sapphire waters while enjoying the cool shade of ancient walled towns, Croatia is the place to be. You will enjoy a cultural feast of simple home-style cooking in friendly family run taverna's, including local wine and freshly caught seafood.<br />
400. <br />
401. If you prefer to be more active on holiday, why not follow one of the numerous hiking trails and travel further inland, where the land flattens into rolling farmland and breathtaking natural beauty.<br />
402. <br />
403. <b><br /></b>
404. <b>Free Spirit, your first step to a carefree trip</b><br />
405. <br />
406. Spring is a great time to set your spirit free with some much needed travel. Wherever you decide to holiday this spring, Free Spirit are committed to providing you with comprehensive travel protection to ensure you can travel with complete peace of mind, 24 hours a day when away from home.<br />
407. <br />
408. Booking travel insurance with Free Spirit <a href="https://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/quote/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>online</b></a> is quick and easy and better still, it's £10 cheaper! <br />
409. <br />
410. If you prefer to speak to us that's ok as well, just call <b>0845 230 5000</b> or <b>02392 419 080</b> 8am – 6pm Monday to Friday (closed Bank Holidays); we know some people prefer to speak to a friendly voice and we will ask you some questions to make sure you get the right cover for you.<br />
411. <br />
412. We hope you have an excellent spring break! </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/7081292265578446390/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/03/escape-this-spring-with-weekend-getaway.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/7081292265578446390'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/7081292265578446390'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/03/escape-this-spring-with-weekend-getaway.html' title='Escape this spring with a weekend getaway'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNITI9A4wu8pbSf0bKVkngUiJ5wPy6X_G4Paa6M8N6KcQeaLsIJrmAHB7xph60fsgg-m5clSS4VS5eNpHnpz_nUcEjtQvBoWvSgemQ5VPLqDvQje6kJh8elfhA6b9t5d3_N4KqLnP5as/s72-c/iStock_000039693300Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-253147416579703866</id><published>2015-03-26T17:04:00.000+00:00</published><updated>2015-03-26T17:04:04.083+00:00</updated><title type='text'> International Purple Day – Raising awareness of Epilepsy around the globe</title><content type='html'>You may be wondering what the colour purple has got to do with epilepsy. Well the answer is the lavender flower as it is often related to isolation and loneliness that people suffering from the condition often feel.  Wearing the colour purple on the 26th March 2015 will unite the world in the quest to raise awareness of this serious medical condition.&lt;br /&gt;
413. <br />
414. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QcJLRKvxZpsKjprFFF2ssD7n9LPXLuRnPlxHGzuxxVcpZ-ov6hBkbKgz9KkDmVJLzsm6BCUXtmZN44bA9R0523Rdyjq4pyQUbv6unzHWAFQiOaP3dEctLCFtiQze2lRA_fScX_44RMc/s1600/iStock_000059257614Smallamend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QcJLRKvxZpsKjprFFF2ssD7n9LPXLuRnPlxHGzuxxVcpZ-ov6hBkbKgz9KkDmVJLzsm6BCUXtmZN44bA9R0523Rdyjq4pyQUbv6unzHWAFQiOaP3dEctLCFtiQze2lRA_fScX_44RMc/s1600/iStock_000059257614Smallamend.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a>According to the Epilepsy Society half a million people in the UK or to break it down 1 in 100 people have epilepsy, which is a common serious neurological condition where there is a tendency to have seizures that start in the brain.<br />
415. <span id="goog_712865481"></span><span id="goog_712865482"></span><br />
416. There are in fact around 40 different types of seizures and each person with epilepsy may encounter one or a combination of different types. A seizure happens when there is a sudden electrical burst of activity and this activity causes a temporary disruption to the way the normal circuits of the brain work. These circuits can become mixed up and the temporary disruption to the brains activities causes the person to have a seizure.<br />
417. <br />
418. In reality there are so many different types of seizures no two people will experience the same type of seizure, therefore seizures become unique to the person. Epilepsy has many possible causes but because of its complexity, the underlying causes may not be found.<br />
419. <div>
420. <br />
421. <a name='more'></a>There are three main epileptic groups;<br />
422. <br />
423. <b>Symptomatic</b> – when there is no known cause. It may be from a head injury, infection, stroke or even a tumour.<br />
424. <br />
425. <b>Idiopathic</b> - when it is due to a genetic tendency or due to a change in the persons genes before they are born.<br />
426. <br />
427. <b>Cryptogenic</b> – when the cause of the seizures has not been found despite investigations.<br />
428. <br />
429. My daughter suffers from nocturnal epilepsy and her seizures are usually between 1am-3am but of course seizures can happen at any time of day or night. The main triggers include bad sleeping pattern, stress, exposure to flashing lights, alcohol and forgetting to take medication. Some people may remember their seizure and others will have no memory of it at all depending on the type of seizure they have had. Although there is no known cure, avoiding triggers is said to help.<br />
430. <br />
431. You may think it is easy to avoid triggers, however for many people they feel helpless and frustrated in trying to avoid or minimise the risk of seizures. This frustration is heightened when travelling away from home as epilepsy can be unpredictable and despite your best efforts to reduce the risk of having a seizure, sometimes it isn’t always possible. <br />
432. <br />
433. Of course when you are in the comfort of your own home it is easy to control your environment and the things you do each day. However this isn’t always possible when you are on holiday and extra precautions have to be taken.<br />
434. <br />
435. Depending on where you travel to you may experience jet lag, extreme temperatures, loud and unexpected noises and changes to your eating pattern. All of these things can contribute to a trigger which could result in a seizure. <br />
436. <br />
437. Just such a thing happened to my daughter three years ago when holidaying in Greece. On the second night she had a seizure because of a hot and humid evening, tiredness from travelling and too much excitement during the day on the beach. Luckily for us we were able to manage the effects of the seizure without medical assistance however we may not be so lucky next time.<br />
438. <br />
439. We understand there are so many things you need to take into consideration when travelling with a medical condition so it is always worth taking some precautions before you go, such as buying specialist epilepsy travel insurance.<br />
440. <br />
441. If you have already booked your holiday you will want to know you are covered for pre-paid holiday costs, in case you need to cancel your trip because of your epilepsy. Also, no one likes to think something will happen to them when away from home. However, should you be unfortunate to have a seizure on holiday which requires emergency medical assistance, you will want to have the peace of mind your travel insurance will cover you, for any associated medical costs you have to pay.<br />
442. <br />
443. Free Spirit can provide you and your travelling companions with the cover you need (terms and conditions apply, of course!). You can do this either <a href="https://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/quote/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online</a> or if you prefer to call our dedicated UK medical screening team on <b>0845 230 5000</b> or <b>02392 419 080</b> and discuss your insurance needs, that’s ok too. We will ask you some questions about your health and the health of any travelling companions, to make sure you get the best cover for you all.<br />
444. <br />
445. You can find more useful advice and information about travelling with epilepsy in the <a href="http://www.ibe-travelhandbook.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Travellers Handbook for People with Epilepsy</a>. </div>
446. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/253147416579703866/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/03/international-purple-day-raising-awareness-of-epilepsy.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/253147416579703866'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/253147416579703866'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/03/international-purple-day-raising-awareness-of-epilepsy.html' title=' International Purple Day – Raising awareness of Epilepsy around the globe'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3QcJLRKvxZpsKjprFFF2ssD7n9LPXLuRnPlxHGzuxxVcpZ-ov6hBkbKgz9KkDmVJLzsm6BCUXtmZN44bA9R0523Rdyjq4pyQUbv6unzHWAFQiOaP3dEctLCFtiQze2lRA_fScX_44RMc/s72-c/iStock_000059257614Smallamend.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-3125270949588613774</id><published>2015-03-26T10:57:00.002+00:00</published><updated>2015-03-26T10:58:06.669+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Do you have travel insurance with the Marks &amp; Spencer Premium Club?</title><content type='html'>Marks &amp;amp; Spencer Premium Club is available to M&amp;amp;S credit card holders and the club benefits range from; vouchers for food and clothes discounts, free cups of coffee at in-store cafes and travel insurance under the age of 70. However, the cost of the Premium Club is soon to increase.&lt;br /&gt;
447. <br />
448. It has recently been reported that Marks & Spencer will be hiking up the monthly charge for their Premium Club loyalty card by an extra £5, from £15 a month to £20 a month from the 17th April 2015 and withdrawing some of the club benefits. <br />
449. <br />
450. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuYsOBMDsXjnMcou96AFx-aMhSD-bMhk2ijf2NBEkuL3Q1xmwz10WTBgb7gPZD0Vk1-D-MQGk0pdT3FShrSVyQeBXckyKDOuDD_WnOZn0APCmhzpjs6ZI9r5VBKd5ndTf3XRog1K_qr0/s1600/iStock_000004142949XSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuYsOBMDsXjnMcou96AFx-aMhSD-bMhk2ijf2NBEkuL3Q1xmwz10WTBgb7gPZD0Vk1-D-MQGk0pdT3FShrSVyQeBXckyKDOuDD_WnOZn0APCmhzpjs6ZI9r5VBKd5ndTf3XRog1K_qr0/s1600/iStock_000004142949XSmall.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a>Now you may be wondering why we would be interested in this story. Well they are advising their club members that if they are unhappy with the higher cost they can either shut their account without penalty or swap to a new £10-a-month deal, where they will be able to keep every club benefit except the travel insurance cover. <br />
451. <br />
452. The Club launched six years ago and it proved a huge success with many older shoppers specifically signing up for the travel insurance. However, Marks & Spencer advise the higher monthly fee is to cover the spiralling cost of insuring older customers for travel overseas.<br />
453. <br />
454. If you are an existing Premium Club member and are considering shutting your account or swapping to the lower monthly charge, you may be worried about who will insure you for your next holiday. There is no need as Free Spirit are on hand to help!<br />
455. <br />
456. <a name='more'></a>At Free Spirit we believe that <b><i>everyone</i></b> deserves the right to travel with peace of mind and the knowledge that they are properly insured. This is why we are specialists in offering holiday insurance for all ages.<br />
457. <br />
458. Depending on how many times you like to take a holiday/trip, we can offer both single trip cover up to 94 days (45 days if aged 76 or over) and our annual multi-trip policy provides unlimited number of trips – travel up to 31 days per trip (Super cover) or 45 days (Super Duper cover) irrespective of age. <br />
459. <br />
460. Senior travellers are generally seen as more likely to have a medical condition and this can sometimes add to the difficulty in finding comprehensive travel insurance. Free Spirit can offer you and your travelling companion’s specialist travel insurance even if you have a medical condition. Cover is subject to medical screening.<br />
461. <br />
462. Our <a href="https://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/quote/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">online</a> medical screening process enables you to add your medical condition(s) with ease, in the comfort of your own home and at any time that suits you. We know retired people have more time on their hands but prefer to do things at their own pace, so our website is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, better still you can save £10 when buying online. <br />
463. <br />
464. We will ask you some questions about your health and the health of each traveller to be insured, so we can provide the best travel quote for the cover that suits your needs and we will do it at a price that is fair. Should you lose your policy documents or prefer for them to be posted, we don’t charge you for this where other providers may do.<br />
465. <br />
466. We understand some people prefer to phone us to discuss their travel insurance requirements. We have a dedicated UK-based specialist customer services team who are on hand to help you. You can call us on <b>0845 230 5000</b> or <b>02392 419 080</b> between 8am – 6pm Monday to Friday, closed Bank Holidays. <br />
467. <br />
468. If you still enjoy travelling and don&#39;t want your age to get in the way, let Free Spirit provide the peace of mind protection you need and take us away with you.</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/3125270949588613774/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/03/do-you-have-travel-insurance-with-marks-and-spencer-premium-club.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/3125270949588613774'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/3125270949588613774'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/03/do-you-have-travel-insurance-with-marks-and-spencer-premium-club.html' title='Do you have travel insurance with the Marks &amp; Spencer Premium Club?'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmuYsOBMDsXjnMcou96AFx-aMhSD-bMhk2ijf2NBEkuL3Q1xmwz10WTBgb7gPZD0Vk1-D-MQGk0pdT3FShrSVyQeBXckyKDOuDD_WnOZn0APCmhzpjs6ZI9r5VBKd5ndTf3XRog1K_qr0/s72-c/iStock_000004142949XSmall.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-9055597803688676568</id><published>2015-02-06T16:38:00.000+00:00</published><updated>2015-03-02T13:46:19.676+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Travel insurance for multi-generation holidays</title><content type='html'>In today&#39;s modern life it can be difficult to balance work and family time; and with more and more people working full time with longer hours, it can be too easy to forgo the visits to see family if they don’t live locally to you. Of course our spare time is precious and for most people, household chores and time with children is spent mainly at weekends. If you are like me, you don’t want to spend hours stuck on the motorway to visit family.&lt;br /&gt;
469. <br />
470. However, a growing band of people are changing the way we spend time with family. They are doing this by travelling on holiday with several generations of their family, so that they can spend more quality time with them, rather than a snap shot of moments at a weekend. I think this is a great idea and can be brilliant fun!<br />
471. <br />
472. What better scenario could you have from a holiday, with grandparents on hand to babysit if you fancy some relaxing downtime and children are able to spend real bonding time with grandparents. Rather than the usual hurried routine, you can spend time together at whatever pace suits you all.<br />
473. <br />
474. <a name='more'></a>For most families, travelling is considered a luxury. However the senior generation are enjoying better health for longer and can have more disposable income to spend on holidays, so that quality time with the family abroad is considered an attractive option. It is also a great way to cut costs as booking individual hotel rooms can work out more expensive than booking a villa or an apartment for you all to share, which can cut the cost overall.<br />
475. <br />
476. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
477. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY3RYArOXfbgy-JT6-1gk0vV_KhNhn8-fOzjdUrfiqm4qx7-y4sdYej0TFK4sfeVWa-uOCdGCtL8QNUnLu9NJTcStwpouMuPD71bGw58qDjscz1LIFSV10DSdxVxxbRQaOhxVslSjAIc/s1600/iStock_000015072492Medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY3RYArOXfbgy-JT6-1gk0vV_KhNhn8-fOzjdUrfiqm4qx7-y4sdYej0TFK4sfeVWa-uOCdGCtL8QNUnLu9NJTcStwpouMuPD71bGw58qDjscz1LIFSV10DSdxVxxbRQaOhxVslSjAIc/s1600/iStock_000015072492Medium.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
478. Booking your own holiday home is a great option as it gets all the family involved. I love this option and we have for many years chosen to stay clear of hotels as we like to experience the local cultures and cuisines and we are able to do this when staying on a self-catering basis. For kids especially, being able to go to a local supermarket and see all types of weird and wonderful fruit and vegetables for me are an important part of the holiday.<br />
479. <br />
480. Another great idea for a multi-generation holiday is a cruise. They are a great option for families as there is always something on board for everyone. I have just returned from my first cruise and the most appealing attraction for me was the diversity of things to do. Mums and dads can treat themselves to a few hours in the spa, children can be amused by the on-board kids clubs and splash pools and grandparents can soak up the sun by the on-deck adult only pool. Everyone can experience their own unique holiday giving each family member the choice to relax or explore but at the same time still being together.<br />
481. <br />
482. I have fond memories of holidays with my parents and grandparents. Growing up, I only saw my grandparents once or twice a year, so when my parents decided to get the family together and book a self catering holiday for a week in Devon, my sisters & I were thrilled! It was a new experience for us all but what fun times we had! Now the memories are told like stories to younger generations of the family and what priceless memories they are.<br />
483. <br />
484. No matter how lovely it is to holiday with parents, it can also be a worry especially if they are over 65 with medical conditions. So getting the right travel insurance is key to a successful trip abroad. At Free Spirit we know that these days, families are made up differently and so our insurance policy is designed to be suitable for everyone - elderly parents, teenage children or even single parents travelling with young children. If you do need specialist travel cover for medical conditions, think about including all people in your holiday party on the same insurance policy so that you are all covered both before & during your holiday - just in case! (terms & conditions apply of course!).<br />
485. <br />
486. We will also do our best to make your life as easy as possible by giving you a choice of policies with a choice of <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/whats-covered.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">benefits</a> so you can make sure you have the cover you need for the things that are most important to you. You'll also enjoy access to our <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/documents/FreeSpiritPolicy1214.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">24 hour emergency helpline</a> should things go wrong and you need help or advice. <br />
487. <br />
488. So it doesn't matter if you're heading off for a multi-generation family holiday - we can take the pressure off by providing peace of mind that we're here for you every step of the way.<br />
489. <br />
490. Why not get an <a href="https://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/quote/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">instant quote</a> now by using our fully interactive website. Better still, you will receive a £10 discount when you purchase online. If you would prefer to <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/contact-us.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">call us</a> that's fine too. Let's see how Free Spirit can get your family holiday plans off to a great start.<br />
491. <br />
492. I hope your family holidays are as memorable as mine - happy holidays everyone!</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/9055597803688676568/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/02/travel-insurance-for-multi-generation-holidays.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/9055597803688676568'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/9055597803688676568'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/02/travel-insurance-for-multi-generation-holidays.html' title='Travel insurance for multi-generation holidays'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkY3RYArOXfbgy-JT6-1gk0vV_KhNhn8-fOzjdUrfiqm4qx7-y4sdYej0TFK4sfeVWa-uOCdGCtL8QNUnLu9NJTcStwpouMuPD71bGw58qDjscz1LIFSV10DSdxVxxbRQaOhxVslSjAIc/s72-c/iStock_000015072492Medium.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-3105749628835405824</id><published>2015-02-03T16:34:00.002+00:00</published><updated>2015-02-03T16:34:54.879+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Travelling with cancer in a cold climate</title><content type='html'>There are few things more liberating than partaking in winter sports while on holiday; troubles have a tendency to melt away when you’re bombing down a ski-run, regardless of age or medical conditions! In the same way, sometimes taking a holiday to regions with a cold climate can give you a fresh perspective, blowing out the cobwebs while dazzling your sense with scenes of a more stark natural wonder than you would find in the Caribbean or in the Serengeti.&lt;br /&gt;
493. <br />
494. There is no reason that being diagnosed with cancer should in anyway diminish your ability to enjoy a holiday in a colder climate. No medical condition should get in the way of you living your life to the full! With that in mind, we've collected some tips on how to minimise the effects of cancer while travelling to more chillier climes, maintaining your freedom to travel!<br />
495. <br />
496. <b>Talk to your GP</b><br />
497. <br />
498. This is probably the most crucial piece of advice when travelling with any long term illness. No one is better placed to understand your needs as a patient than your GP, so you should always consult them prior to making travel plans. This way, they will be able to better advise you on what precautions to bear in mind, what medication that you’ll need to take with you, and in what quantity.<br />
499. <div>
500. <br />
501. <a name='more'></a><b>Plan for the worst case scenario</b><br />
502. <br />
503. By maintaining your normal routines in regards to medication and general living, you should be able to stave off the usual symptoms of cancer and the side effects of treatment. However it’s vital that you compensate for some of the additional risks that colder weather can bring to cancer sufferers. Bear in mind that this is something you’ll have to deal with while travelling (at airport, bus stations etc.), as well as at your final destination.</div>
504. <div>
505. <br />
506. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
507. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_uLENaHjpnd_rHnGlP35CHlvlwHVCcI80Z8V_eVnUKapZDyzmTF-lPfEFQUAv7MKy4uKnQ-28fesIiPN06N4fC5GiQwVRw-An-oVkNlq0ABgHwrc1C7OfSflWPlA5O4jdFwdELbXtDUk/s1600/iStock_000008464541Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_uLENaHjpnd_rHnGlP35CHlvlwHVCcI80Z8V_eVnUKapZDyzmTF-lPfEFQUAv7MKy4uKnQ-28fesIiPN06N4fC5GiQwVRw-An-oVkNlq0ABgHwrc1C7OfSflWPlA5O4jdFwdELbXtDUk/s1600/iStock_000008464541Small.jpg" height="320" width="221" /></a></div>
508. The effects of cancer and cancer treatment such as dehydration, weight and hair loss, can all negatively affect your body’s ability to regulate temperature, so it’s important to factor this into your holiday plans. Make sure that you remain hydrated and avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, to ensure that you have a good time. Nine to thirteen cups of water a day are recommended; check with your GP as to what amount is best for you.<br />
509. <br />
510. <b>Pack sensibly</b><br />
511. <br />
512. With this in mind, make sure that you have packed sufficient additional clothing to keep yourself comfortable and warm. Temperature regulation is essential to decrease the risk of the development of hypothermia or other cold related illnesses. <br />
513. <br />
514. More general cancer travel tips still apply to holidays in frozen regions; for example, always pack more medication than you may otherwise need in case you lose any during your trip. This is doubly important if finding replacement medication will be particularly difficult at your chosen destination. Take steps to ensure that your holiday resort has medical facilities nearby to deal with any emergency complications you may have.<br />
515. <br />
516. <b>Get the right level of insurance for your needs</b><br />
517. <br />
518. It’s fair to say that it’s a lot harder to get travel insurance for cancer patients, which is where we come in. Our specially tailored cancer travel insurance is designed to give you wide-ranging cover while remaining fairly priced. Travel insurance for Cancer from Free Spirit gives you the peace of mind both before and during your holiday/trip, so should the worst happen while abroad we will have you covered (policy terms and conditions apply of course!).<br />
519. <br />
520. We offer two different levels of insurance cover – ‘Super’ and ‘Super Duper’ - details of Free Spirit can be found <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/information/cancer-travel-insurance.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
521. <br />
522. Additional resources<br />
523. <br />
524. For further information on how to best prepare for a cold weather holiday while suffering from cancer, these charities have a wealth of additional information: <a href="http://www.cancerresearchuk.org/cancer-help/coping-with-cancer/coping-practically/travel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cancer Research UK</a> and <a href="http://www.macmillan.org.uk/Cancerinformation/Livingwithandaftercancer/Practicalissues/Travel/Travel.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Macmillan Cancer Support</a> while organisations such as the <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/travelhealth/Pages/travelling-with-cancer.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NHS</a> also offer expert advice to holidaymakers in regards to counteracting the effects of cancer while abroad.</div>
525. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/3105749628835405824/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/02/travelling-with-cancer-in-cold-climate.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/3105749628835405824'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/3105749628835405824'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/02/travelling-with-cancer-in-cold-climate.html' title='Travelling with cancer in a cold climate'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_uLENaHjpnd_rHnGlP35CHlvlwHVCcI80Z8V_eVnUKapZDyzmTF-lPfEFQUAv7MKy4uKnQ-28fesIiPN06N4fC5GiQwVRw-An-oVkNlq0ABgHwrc1C7OfSflWPlA5O4jdFwdELbXtDUk/s72-c/iStock_000008464541Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-2232838156743684011</id><published>2015-01-28T14:17:00.002+00:00</published><updated>2015-01-28T14:18:14.376+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Cervical Cancer Prevention Week</title><content type='html'>Cervical cancer prevention week aims at raising awareness of the devastating impact this type of cancer can have on both a woman and her loved ones.&lt;br /&gt;
526. <br />
527. Data from the <a href="http://www.ons.gov.uk/ons/search/index.html?newquery=cervical+cancer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Office of National Statistics</a> shows numbers diagnosed with cervical cancer in under 35 year olds in England, has risen by 3.98% in one year and 33.1% over 10 years. The increase appears to be from a poor uptake of the screening test with 56% of under 35’s failing to be screened in 2013/14. <br />
528. <br />
529. <a href="http://www.jostrust.org.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust</a> carried out a survey to reveal some of the reasons why young woman are either delaying the test or not attending. The results include 20% seeing the screening process as an unnecessary health test, 26.2% considered it may be painful and 26.6% thought it would be embarrassing. <br />
530. <br />
531. I can understand the concerns that younger woman may have about the screening test especially if you are not sexually active or if you have not yet experienced child birth. I think both of these things help you understand your body in a better way to enable you to allow medical professionals to examine you. I can understand why younger woman think it is embarrassing, I felt exactly the same way for a long time but then you start to realise that this test could one day save your life, what better reason do you need.<br />
532. <div>
533. <br />
534. <a name='more'></a>I had my first test at 26 and now 20 years down the road, it is still as important to me as the first. I am proud to say I have not missed one appointment, with my last screening test only 2 weeks ago. However, despite previous tests showing no abnormal cells, this recent test has proved very different. I now require a colposcopy examination to determine if the high risk cell changes detected, are likely to cause cervical abnormalities or worse still, have already caused pre-cancerous cells. It just goes to show, the screening does work no matter what age you are. <br />
535. <br />
536. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in all women under 35 and it claims the lives of 1,000 British women with a further 3,000 new diagnoses every year. I think these numbers are frightening but cervical cancer is preventable and if caught early, survival rates are high.<br />
537. <br />
538. Robert Music, Chief Executive for Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust said: “Every day we see the devastating impact a cervical cancer diagnosis can have on both a woman and her loved ones. But to know that for those that delayed their screening before diagnosis, this could have been prevented, is tragic.”<br />
539. <br />
540. "It's now time that we see an upward shift in awareness or cervical cancer and an understanding of the importance of smear tests. The more women who take this life saving five minute test, the fewer will face infertility, early menopause, more extensive long term effects and potentially even loss of life. It’s time we all acted as it may just save a life."<br />
541. <br />
542. Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust is running a campaign to raise awareness and this year sees the theme <a href="http://www.jostrust.org.uk/smearforsmear/?gclid=CND5zPCVtMMCFcqe2woduDgAEw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#SmearforSmear</a>. Woman (and men) across social media are being urged to share selfies of lipstick smeared across their face in support of the cervical cancer awareness week.<br />
543. <br />
544. The focus of the prevention week is on all things to do with cervical cancer including information about symptoms and causes of the disease, ways to prevent it and how to show support.  They are asking people to take a lipstick smear selfie and nominate your friends to do the same, enabling the message to reach as many women as possible. Here is my smear selfie in support of the prevention week.<br />
545. <div>
546. <br /></div>
547. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
548. </div>
549. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
550. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPo9EG1O4rF1KuN2cY4fYnj4giluxHXth0PJbp96aT010C_9qQX_1MZXfqxvWA9GmaeIdB5EweezYiuQHrJ9jm1WMfR9Nja3bTtvD0_8saUB1Y4_pGaZO6RpxX0faj4cKPHq8RZYfUhyphenhyphenY/s1600/Untitled-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPo9EG1O4rF1KuN2cY4fYnj4giluxHXth0PJbp96aT010C_9qQX_1MZXfqxvWA9GmaeIdB5EweezYiuQHrJ9jm1WMfR9Nja3bTtvD0_8saUB1Y4_pGaZO6RpxX0faj4cKPHq8RZYfUhyphenhyphenY/s1600/Untitled-4.jpg" height="320" width="225" /></a></div>
551. <div>
552. <br />
553. You may be thinking why is Free Spirit interested in awareness campaigns. For patients and survivors of cervical cancer, getting good travel insurance can be difficult. We offer cancer patients and survivors the cover they need to go anywhere in the world and we try and do it at a price that’s fair.<br />
554. <br />
555. Medical travel insurance is our specialism and we cover hundreds of conditions every week. Why not take a look at some of the <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/key-features.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">key features</a> of our cancer travel insurance. Even if other insurance providers have said "No" and you've been declined medical travel insurance, we are usually the ones who say "Yes". We can cover you.” </div>
556. </div>
557. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/2232838156743684011/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/01/cervical-cancer-prevention-week.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/2232838156743684011'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/2232838156743684011'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/01/cervical-cancer-prevention-week.html' title='Cervical Cancer Prevention Week'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPo9EG1O4rF1KuN2cY4fYnj4giluxHXth0PJbp96aT010C_9qQX_1MZXfqxvWA9GmaeIdB5EweezYiuQHrJ9jm1WMfR9Nja3bTtvD0_8saUB1Y4_pGaZO6RpxX0faj4cKPHq8RZYfUhyphenhyphenY/s72-c/Untitled-4.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-1452979659711662299</id><published>2015-01-23T10:46:00.002+00:00</published><updated>2015-01-23T10:47:04.407+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Doctors have performed the first UK organ transplant from a newborn</title><content type='html'>Organ transplants have been performed as far back as the start of the 20th century with the first transplant being the cornea in 1905.&lt;br /&gt;
558. <br />
559. In a recent neonatal procedure described as a milestone, a six-day-old baby girl's kidneys and liver cells were given to two separate recipients after her heart stopped beating. Doctors writing in the journal <a href="http://adc.bmj.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Archives of Diseases in Childhood</a>, describe the case of the baby girl who was born in extremely poor health. <br />
560. <br />
561. Doctors at Imperial College NHS Trust in London say in an act of "extraordinary generosity" her parents agreed that her organs could be donated, once her heart stopped beating. Her 5cm long kidneys were given to a patient with renal failure and in a separate operation her liver cells were transfused to someone with a failing liver.<br />
562. <br />
563. Prof James Neuberger of <a href="http://www.nhsbt.nhs.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NHS Blood and Transplant</a>, said: "We are pleased the first transplant of organs from a newborn in the UK was a success and we praise the brave decision of the family to donate their baby's organs.<br />
564. <div>
565. <br />
566. <a name='more'></a>"The sad reality is for everybody to get the lifesaving transplant they are desperately in need of, more families who are facing the tragic loss of their young child will need to agree to donation."<br />
567. <br />
568. Dr Gaurav Atreja, who was involved in the transplant, said “This turned out to be a positive thing for the family. They could see something positive out of a negative experience. We hope that neonatal units across the UK will actively start thinking about this noble cause."<br />
569. <br />
570. Free Spirit is proud to sponsor <a href="http://mots2012.org.uk/sponsors.html" target="_blank">Multi Organ Transplant Support (MOTS)</a> who are a small charity providing support to people who have undergone an organ transplant and their families throughout the UK. MOTS are the only UK officially registered charity dedicated to supporting pre and post multi-organ transplant patients and they do this in many ways such as newsletters, information leaflets, support groups and chat forums.<br />
571. <br />
572. Travelling abroad can be difficult if you’re an organ transplant patient, especially when it comes to obtaining travel insurance and you may think you won’t be able to get the cover you need.<br />
573. <br />
574. Many standard travel insurance policies may exclude cover for serious surgical procedures or will decline to offer cover. It is vital to check the policy wording to make sure you have the right cover for you. <br />
575. <br />
576. Free Spirit is able to provide cover for people who have had organ transplants and other medical conditions, no matter how recent they may be.<br />
577. <br />
578. <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Free Spirit</a> prides itself on being able to provide cover when other providers can’t, to ensure people get the cover they need for their holiday or trip.<br />
579. <br />
580. Please note: On this page you will be offered links to other websites which we hope will be of interest. However, please be aware that Free Spirit have no control over such sites and do not endorse them. Free Spirit are not responsible for the availability or content of, or products and services available on those websites. You are advised to read the privacy policy of other sites before disclosing any personal information.  </div>
581. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/1452979659711662299/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/01/doctors-have-performed-first-uk-organ-transplant-from-a-newborn.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/1452979659711662299'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/1452979659711662299'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2015/01/doctors-have-performed-first-uk-organ-transplant-from-a-newborn.html' title='Doctors have performed the first UK organ transplant from a newborn'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-7228793304526598535</id><published>2014-12-19T15:09:00.001+00:00</published><updated>2014-12-19T15:10:12.291+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Don’t let your health or age stop you travelling if you are over 65 </title><content type='html'>You may find yourself with fewer responsibilities and a little more time on your hands when you reach 65 and the thought of travelling abroad may seem more appealing. You may want to experience warmer, sunnier climates, visit a famous landmark or just sample some of the best cuisine the world has to offer. It doesn&#39;t really matter what reason you have to travel abroad just as long as you obtain specialist over 65 travel insurance before jetting off!&lt;br /&gt;
582. <br />
583. You may find that some standard insurance providers consider senior travellers a higher risk of claiming especially if you have an existing medical condition, and so you may run into difficulty obtaining a standard quote. You may be saying to yourself “I will never be able to get travel insurance to cover my health”. <br />
584. <br />
585. Here at Free Spirit we believe everyone deserves the right to travel and this is why we pride ourselves in providing our customers with a tailor made over 65’s cover. When other insurance providers say “No”, we are usually the ones who say “Yes. We can cover you”. Of course there may be times when we can’t offer cover, but we will always let you know the reasons why. <br />
586. <br />
587. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
588. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZSaEUzoXTCvOCKFNtiGUeBLMwgybmbW7n8BsCDcXc7wGhKBS8RZ85hhu5cclQEiHqU77I0R3Orn5W7kApZZiaAR9Yixa4U7cbCXGhu4XFFmsfEOZEZ1bWZyC2QrVgNg40xcASiPUsN4/s1600/108316571_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZSaEUzoXTCvOCKFNtiGUeBLMwgybmbW7n8BsCDcXc7wGhKBS8RZ85hhu5cclQEiHqU77I0R3Orn5W7kApZZiaAR9Yixa4U7cbCXGhu4XFFmsfEOZEZ1bWZyC2QrVgNg40xcASiPUsN4/s1600/108316571_5.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
589. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
590. <br /></div>
591. Although you may expect your specialist travel insurance for over 65’s to be more expensive than a standard policy, there are some things you need to consider which may reduce your premium without compromising on the level of cover, for example:<br />
592. <br />
593. <a name='more'></a><ul>
594. <li>If you are likely to take two or more holidays a year, why not ask for an Annual Multi-trip quote as it may work out cheaper than purchasing individual single trip covers.</li>
595. </ul>
596. <ul>
597. <li>Likewise, don’t buy a worldwide policy if you only plan to travel around Europe as it will be more expensive.</li>
598. </ul>
599. <ul>
600. <li>If you have the same level of cover on your household insurance for accidental loss, theft or damage to your personal belongings and valuables, we can offer a reduction on the travel insurance premium by deleting this section of the cover.</li>
601. </ul>
602. We understand it can be a worry travelling abroad with a medical condition and by declaring all pre-existing conditions on your travel insurance, you can travel with complete peace of mind knowing that if you need emergency medical assistance for any declared medical condition, you will be covered.<br />
603. <br />
604. <b>Here are a few travel tips to get you off to a good start:</b><br />
605. <br />
606. <ul>
607. <li>Speak to your GP before booking your holiday to find out whether your preferred travel destination is suitable when taking the needs and requirements of your medical condition into consideration. The NHS <a href="http://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/home.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fit for Travel</a> website offers destination-specific guidance and some travel health tips for travellers.</li>
608. </ul>
609. <ul>
610. <li>Packing smart means packing less and only taking the essentials or pack complete outfits rather than individual items, this will help to lighten your load.</li>
611. </ul>
612. <ul>
613. <li>No matter how long your trip is, each day is valuable and you don’t want to waste time wondering how you are going to spend them. Therefore, planning ahead of time can go a long way in ensuring your holiday is a memorable one.</li>
614. </ul>
615. This time of year is a great time to visit friends and relatives no matter where they live, so book the flight, send an email to say you are coming to stay and let Free Spirit take the worry out of travelling. We will have you covered from the date you start your policy so what are you waiting for, free your spirit and go travel the world enjoying carefree holidays once again!<br />
616. <br />
617. Visit our website today at &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/&quot; rel=&quot;nofollow&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;www.FreeSpiritTravelInsurance.com&lt;/a&gt; and save £10 when you buy online.</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/7228793304526598535/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/12/dont-let-your-health-or-age-stop-you-travelling-if-you-are-over-65.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/7228793304526598535'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/7228793304526598535'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/12/dont-let-your-health-or-age-stop-you-travelling-if-you-are-over-65.html' title='Don’t let your health or age stop you travelling if you are over 65 '/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZSaEUzoXTCvOCKFNtiGUeBLMwgybmbW7n8BsCDcXc7wGhKBS8RZ85hhu5cclQEiHqU77I0R3Orn5W7kApZZiaAR9Yixa4U7cbCXGhu4XFFmsfEOZEZ1bWZyC2QrVgNg40xcASiPUsN4/s72-c/108316571_5.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-55356728530295399</id><published>2014-11-10T17:42:00.001+00:00</published><updated>2014-11-10T17:42:49.752+00:00</updated><title type='text'> Flying Tips for Senior Travellers</title><content type='html'>Just about everyone regardless of age loves taking foreign trips but as most seasoned travellers know all too well, it can be arduous on your body especially if you are a senior traveller. Some of us may grumble about cramped airline seats or simply becoming disoriented from navigating our way through airports so here are some top tips to help make your trip journey more pleasant:&lt;br /&gt;
618. <br />
619. <b>See Your Doctor Beforehand</b><br />
620. <br />
621. If you are taking a long trip and have any serious pre-existing medical conditions, see a doctor before going abroad just to make sure you are fit to travel. Remember the change in climate, air pressure of flying and time zones can be stressful on your body and risky if you take prescribed medication. Even if it is just for your peace of mind check with your doctor before finalising travel plans, so you have the most up to date prescription and if required by your airline, a medical certificate for any medication carried in your hand baggage.<br />
622. <br />
623. <b>Travel Insurance to cover flight delays</b><br />
624. <b><br /></b>
625. Check your travel insurance provider covers things such as journey disruption, missed departure/connection and even airspace closure. What would you do if your car broke down on the way to the airport or, if you intended travelling to the airport by train and there was strike, how would you claim for any pre-paid holiday travel costs if you missed your flight. <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/information/over-65-travel-insurance.aspx?dm_t=0,0,0,0,0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Specialist travel insurance for seniors</a> covers all the things you need to make sure your holiday gets off to a good start. If you are travelling within Europe make sure your <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/about-the-ehic.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">EHIC</a> is in date. The card is not an alternative to travel insurance and it will not cover any private medical healthcare or costs such as being flown back to the UK. Therefore, it is important to have both an EHIC and a valid travel insurance policy.<br />
626. <br />
627. <a name='more'></a><b>Plan ahead and make arrangements with the airline</b><br />
628. <br />
629. If you have a medical condition that requires you to have a certain seat position such as extra leg room, window or isle seat or if you have mobility difficulties and use a wheel chair let the airline know as far in advance as possible. Most commercial airlines will bend over backwards to accommodate you and help you to get the most appropriate seat on the plane for your particular needs. However check with your airline to make sure there are no extra costs for providing this service.<br />
630. <br />
631. <b>Dress for comfort</b><br />
632. <br />
633. Dressing practically for the plane will allow you to feel comfortable and relaxed during the flight and more refreshed when you get to your final destination. You may not be the most glamorous passenger boarding, but just wait until you get there. There is nothing worse than spending the majority of the flight time adjusting your clothing because you wanted to look smart for your holiday. I always find: <br />
634. <br />
635. <br />
636. <ul>
637. <li><b>Comfortable, slip-on shoes</b> won't hinder you when clearing airport security - these are also helpful when it's time to go to sleep on the plane and you want to kick off your shoes.</li>
638. </ul>
639. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
640. <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/images/stroke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/images/stroke.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
641. <ul>
642. <li><b>Compression socks/stockings</b> are really useful during and after your flight for preventing you from getting deep vein thrombosis or if you already have a DVT, they will assist with the increase of blood flow in your legs and feet to aid the reduction of any stiffness and swelling.</li>
643. </ul>
644. <ul>
645. <li><b>Wear soft cotton</b> and loose clothing rather than anything rough or heavy. It is uncomfortable enough sitting on a plane without having to feel the constant scratch of thick material. If travelling in the winter months you will need the layers for outside but remember, when sitting on a plane for a long haul flight you will get warm very quickly. Think about how bulky your winter clothing is and if you will be able to store it easily when flying.</li>
646. </ul>
647. <br />
648. <br />
649. <b>Take a neck pillow and a travel blanket</b><br />
650. <br />
651. Banish those mid-air chills with a fleecy <a href="https://thejetrest.com/products/jetrest-travel-blanket-large-sizes?gclid=CKywz7zgu7gCFbMctAodyQ0A_A" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">travel blanket</a> to keep you snuggled up during a night flight. Most pillows provided by airlines are not always effective especially if you have a pre-existing neck condition. If you are prone to stiffness why not buy your own <a href="http://www.jpillow.com/inflatable-j-pillow" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">inflatable pillow</a> so you get the support you need and better still, you can deflate it and use it again for the next flight. There are many flight accessories out there now either online or at travel shops and it’s good to shop around for the best deals.<br />
652. <br />
653. <b>Stay hydrated</b><br />
654. <br />
655. The air conditioning inside an aeroplane can dry your skin and eyes out terribly. If you suffer with a skin condition take your prescribed skin cream in a small container so that you can use it during the flight. Eyes drops are great if you wear contact lenses and lip balm will avoid cracked lips.  If you manage to fall asleep, it's always nice to freshen up before breakfast with some products that put the elasticity back in your face. Back this up by drinking lots of water, fruit juices and herbal teas but not so much that you spend the whole flight going to the toilet. Remember, alcohol will not hydrate you only dehydrate you further.<br />
656. <br />
657. <b>Pack your own food</b><br />
658. <br />
659. If you have diabetes and need regular snacks it is worth stocking up before you leave home as airport food can be notoriously expensive. If you like to snack and nibble while you're travelling pack your own but remember, don’t take bottles of liquid as it will be confiscated at security screening. Pressurised containers will need to be opened before you take off, otherwise they could burst. Why not use small sealable freezer bags, this way you re-seal what you don’t want for the return flight.<br />
660. <br />
661. <b>Practical luggage</b><br />
662. <br />
663. A travel bag on wheels makes the world of difference especially if you have mobility difficulties. Carrying a week's worth of clothing and supplies around will be tiring even for the fittest person. If you need to borrow a bag for your journey, make sure it’s suitable for your needs and more importantly, it meets the size criteria for your airline. An identification strap is always worth considering as it will help your bag stand out from the rest and why not consider taking a small rucksack for your medication & snacks, but keep it on your back so that you know where it is at all times. Don’t be afraid to ask for help especially at the baggage reclaim if you have difficulty lifting things. <br />
664. <br />
665. With reduced responsibilities and endless time on their hands, more & more senior people are being affected by the travel bug. Age shouldn’t stop you from exploring new travel destinations and making holiday memories. However, it is always worth spending just a small amount of time planning in advance to get the most out of your trip and to enable you to still have the energy to enjoy it.<br />
666. <br />
667. Get a &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/&quot; rel=&quot;nofollow&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;quote&lt;/a&gt; today for your peace of mind travel protection.</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/55356728530295399/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/11/flying-tips-for-senior-travellers.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/55356728530295399'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/55356728530295399'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/11/flying-tips-for-senior-travellers.html' title=' Flying Tips for Senior Travellers'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-6878506363249726356</id><published>2014-11-04T11:24:00.001+00:00</published><updated>2014-11-04T11:24:25.663+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Everyone loves a good holiday and advance planning is key to ensuring nothing goes wrong. Here are 5 travel tips to get your planning started.</title><content type='html'>&lt;div class=&quot;separator&quot; style=&quot;clear: both; text-align: center;&quot;&gt;
668. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZ-ncvdO46VaTbtb1FayMyc1fBNrYXwcVrXLrbubG4uncZ2sNS6TkDZ_XbsINcRiUvIvB8Nc9YBZxBYo1soXnQnfKIl9LXTuE7lj-MZGqUmd7quL3ltaTpJh2wbBwuIgYTZ1QFAqMM8k/s1600/Travel+Tips+for+aging+travellers+final-page1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZ-ncvdO46VaTbtb1FayMyc1fBNrYXwcVrXLrbubG4uncZ2sNS6TkDZ_XbsINcRiUvIvB8Nc9YBZxBYo1soXnQnfKIl9LXTuE7lj-MZGqUmd7quL3ltaTpJh2wbBwuIgYTZ1QFAqMM8k/s1600/Travel+Tips+for+aging+travellers+final-page1.jpg" /></a></div>
669. &lt;br /&gt;</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/6878506363249726356/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/11/everyone-loves-good-holiday-and-advance-planning-is-key.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/6878506363249726356'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/6878506363249726356'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/11/everyone-loves-good-holiday-and-advance-planning-is-key.html' title='Everyone loves a good holiday and advance planning is key to ensuring nothing goes wrong. Here are 5 travel tips to get your planning started.'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOZ-ncvdO46VaTbtb1FayMyc1fBNrYXwcVrXLrbubG4uncZ2sNS6TkDZ_XbsINcRiUvIvB8Nc9YBZxBYo1soXnQnfKIl9LXTuE7lj-MZGqUmd7quL3ltaTpJh2wbBwuIgYTZ1QFAqMM8k/s72-c/Travel+Tips+for+aging+travellers+final-page1.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-2552001495150659185</id><published>2014-10-31T11:20:00.001+00:00</published><updated>2014-11-04T11:21:43.632+00:00</updated><title type='text'>Annual Travel insurance for medical conditions</title><content type='html'>We want everybody to travel no matter their age and it is important that they are not put off enjoying holidays or making important trips in their later years because they wrongly believe themselves to be &#39;uninsurable&#39;. An older traveller does not necessarily pose any greater ‘risk’ just because they have another birthday.&lt;br /&gt;
670. <br />
671. As we have no age limits, Free Spirit will consider customers of any age so even centenarians can travel abroad as often as they like. <br />
672. <br />
673. Choice is not something senior travellers are used to when it comes to travel insurance but we believe everyone deserves the right to travel and we strive to offer insurance for people of all ages, with the majority of medical conditions travelling to any destination. On some occasions it may not be possible to offer a quote but we will always let you know the reason why.<br />
674. <br />
675. <a name='more'></a>Some standard insurance providers avoid senior travellers because they believe the risks are higher, but these people are the ones who are most in need of insurance protection. The UK has an aging population with more and more people in retirement and many of them want to enjoy their golden years by travelling abroad.<br />
676. <div>
677. <br /></div>
678. <div>
679. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
680. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaE3q1YidxUdFjNGtQ3gaOkP3984-yDN8UkfJAO_uKmjs8Tqx2Csqj5hISWYi3g8V_MwdpZ-mrqDqEOm7Q3yRelSSQNwsIjzB4_s4anGR3Jebd8yx6sEABpof3EVwXC1NebhO5gnIMO1w/s1600/iStock_000004393780Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaE3q1YidxUdFjNGtQ3gaOkP3984-yDN8UkfJAO_uKmjs8Tqx2Csqj5hISWYi3g8V_MwdpZ-mrqDqEOm7Q3yRelSSQNwsIjzB4_s4anGR3Jebd8yx6sEABpof3EVwXC1NebhO5gnIMO1w/s1600/iStock_000004393780Small.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
681. Free Spirit prides itself with successfully insuring people in their 80s and 90s with single trip policies and with the appropriate medical screening and it is now able to do the same for those who want an annual policy.<br />
682. <br />
683. Annual travel insurance is a great way to get continuous travel insurance protection for the whole year. You simply need to buy one travel insurance policy and it will provide you with cover for an unlimited number of holidays throughout the year. It allows you to travel as many times as you want in a year and has maximum single trip durations of 31 days on the Super cover and 45 days on the Super Duper cover.<br />
684. <br />
685. Not only do we offer you great trip duration limits, Free Spirit annual trip policy can also be tailored to your individual needs with options to delete baggage and passport cover and cancellation and curtailment cover. If you still enjoy the thrill of downhill skiing and thinking of booking a winter trip, we can get you covered with the winter sports option.<br />
686. <br />
687. With any type of travel insurance, it is very important to declare all of your pre-existing medical conditions when you are getting a quote. This will ensure that you are fully covered if you fall ill before you travel or while you are abroad, if it relates to a pre-existing medical condition.<br />
688. <br />
689. More great reasons why you should buy Free Spirit annual travel insurance with cover for medical conditions:<br />
690. <div>
691. <b><br /></b></div>
692. <div>
693. <b>Can annual travel insurance save you money?</b><br />
694. <br />
695. If you are likely to travel more than once or twice in a year, annual trip cover can work out cheaper than buying a single trip policy for each journey.<br />
696. <br />
697. <b>Buying an annual holiday cover can save you time</b><br />
698. <br />
699. A great benefit of annual holiday insurance, whether you need to cover medical conditions or not, is that you only have to buy it once a year! We will notify you when the policy is due to be renewed and let you know how you can issue a new policy, so that you don’t run the risk of travelling uninsured.<br />
700. <br />
701. <b>Annual travel insurance covers named adults to travel independently</b><br />
702. <br />
703. One added advantage of covering all travelling adult companions on the same annual policy is that they can travel independently of each other as well as together, great news if you are a couple or a family.<br />
704. <br />
705. <b>Continuous cover with annual travel insurance</b><br />
706. <br />
707. As long as you have a valid annual travel insurance policy in place, this can give you continuous cover for cancellation just in case! If you are forced to cancel a trip because of a declared pre-existing medical condition, or due to a new condition being diagnosed after the time you purchased your policy, cover would be in place for any holiday costs already paid.<br />
708. <br />
709. We understand that some of our senior customers want to be able to purchase a specialist travel insurance quickly and have the opportunity to speak with someone if they need to discuss their pre-existing medical conditions. So why not call today on <b>0845 230 5000</b> or <b>02392 419 080</b> and speak with a friendly voice. Our office hours are Monday – Friday 8am – 6pm (except Bank Holidays)<br />
710. <br />
711. Alternatively you may like to have the convenience of issuing a policy yourself online? We have a simple to use interactive medical screening system to enable you to do that, so there is no need to panic if you have left it until the last minute to book. You can <b>save £10</b> if you buy <b>online</b>, so more spending money for while you are away.<br />
712. <br />
713. We don’t use age as a barrier to offering you an insurance cover, so don’t let age get in the way of you travelling abroad and seeking out new travel adventures.</div>
714. </div>
715. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/2552001495150659185/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/10/annual-travel-insurance-for-medical-conditions.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/2552001495150659185'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/2552001495150659185'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/10/annual-travel-insurance-for-medical-conditions.html' title='Annual Travel insurance for medical conditions'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaE3q1YidxUdFjNGtQ3gaOkP3984-yDN8UkfJAO_uKmjs8Tqx2Csqj5hISWYi3g8V_MwdpZ-mrqDqEOm7Q3yRelSSQNwsIjzB4_s4anGR3Jebd8yx6sEABpof3EVwXC1NebhO5gnIMO1w/s72-c/iStock_000004393780Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-6501745398705095197</id><published>2014-10-10T15:09:00.000+01:00</published><updated>2014-10-15T10:25:15.867+01:00</updated><title type='text'>A selection of the best European Christmas Markets to visit in 2014</title><content type='html'>After a long warm summer and the prospect of cooler autumn evenings, if you are short of social invites why not spend your evenings planning in advance to spice up your festive Noel period. In recent years I have started my Christmas shopping at the start of Autumn and made a point of travelling away from home and making a fun-filled day or weekend of it. If you start early in the year you can always find early festive bargains and better still, the queues are not so tiresome.&lt;br /&gt;
716. <br />
717. We are very lucky in the UK as some of our historic towns and cities like Winchester and Bath hold traditional Christmas themed markets and one that stands out as being very different is in Birmingham. Here you can find the largest authentic Frankfurt market held outside Germany and Austria and visitors can soak up the festive atmosphere.<br />
718. <br />
719. If the UK seems to close to home and you fancy a European city break why not book your car onto the Eurotunnel and take a leisurely drive through northern Europe’s scenic landscapes. There are lots of interesting traditions and festivities to discover throughout Europe, but if driving seems too much like hard work and you just want to sit back and relax, why not catch the Eurostar or take a ferry to France and then let a train transport you through the European countryside, to the sights & sounds of some of the best Christmas markets Europe has to offer.<br />
720. <br />
721. <a name='more'></a><a href="http://www.germany-christmas-market.org.uk/berlin_christmas_market.php"><b>Berlin</b></a><br />
722. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
723. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTMIci7iU8iU1wcvRHzuX4GVLAajjzjjj7IOfDtK2bGYQWVpWxEgL0-AYK9kFq0QXI1zIgesgwPVskN5WG3I3sq-fua6eJLtL2vu_avCGw2rrqW65Ey9V4cXqG4CtfcI8YZ_MAIoygrtE/s1600/iStock_000017766651Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTMIci7iU8iU1wcvRHzuX4GVLAajjzjjj7IOfDtK2bGYQWVpWxEgL0-AYK9kFq0QXI1zIgesgwPVskN5WG3I3sq-fua6eJLtL2vu_avCGw2rrqW65Ey9V4cXqG4CtfcI8YZ_MAIoygrtE/s1600/iStock_000017766651Small.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
724. <br />
725. If you love to see Christmas trees adorned with decorations and prefer fairytale themed Christmas markets, then Berlin is the place to visit between the 24th November and the 31st December 2014. Berlin is better known as the capital city of the German Christmas Markets and this can be seen in all their decorations.  Whether you prefer a magical Christmas Market or a lively and urban one, Berlin offers you a choice of sixty Christmas Markets held in grand boulevards, squares and museums, they’ll surprise you with their magic, charm and Christmassy delicacies – there’s something for everyone here.<br />
726. <br />
727. <a href="http://www.welovechristmasmarkets.com/index.php/belgium/bruges"><b>Bruges</b></a><br />
728. <br />
729. If you're looking for something on a smaller scale, then it doesn't get much quainter than Bruges with its intimate cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and picturesque bustling squares. Add to this an abundance of twinkling lights and impressive Christmas decorations and you've got one magical city. The main market activities take place between the 21st November and the 2nd January 2015 in the Market Square, overlooked by the Belfry of Bruges, a medieval bell tower that dominates the city skyline. You can expect to see people gliding around the outdoor ice rink or warming up with a hot Belgium waffle or mulled wine.<br />
730. <br />
731. <a href="http://www.christmasmarkets.com/Belgium/brussels-christmas-market.html"><b>Brussels</b></a><br />
732. <br />
733. From the 29th November to the 4th January 2015 the centre of Brussels transforms into a winter wonderland, featuring a magical Christmas market, street activities and numerous live animations and illuminations bringing a unique atmosphere to the city. The market stretches for 2 km with a series of shops, attractions and outdoor eating and drinking areas along side wooden chalets selling handicrafts and other unusual stocking-fillers.<br />
734. <br />
735. <a href="http://stortorgetsjulmarknad.com/en/index.php"><b>Stockholm</b></a><br />
736. <br />
737. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
738. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3RvUVEUUEuop592PJwLtgR9K2KOo97Y4QDgE34OkqOHK3eK6UCLcwKC_vIpUOZ1GN3_RKBRwnQzllke8bg7rxbme1KSR9sxA1j0BFOc87vM6ovzq9TS1IgaZyh3z8OYpWUG6-GHRNro/s1600/iStock_000028099592Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3RvUVEUUEuop592PJwLtgR9K2KOo97Y4QDgE34OkqOHK3eK6UCLcwKC_vIpUOZ1GN3_RKBRwnQzllke8bg7rxbme1KSR9sxA1j0BFOc87vM6ovzq9TS1IgaZyh3z8OYpWUG6-GHRNro/s1600/iStock_000028099592Small.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
739. <br />
740. <br />
741. Since 1915 Stockholm has held a genuine old town Christmas market. From the 22nd November until the 23rd December 2014 the old town is filled with little red stalls selling warm gingerbread, cheese and crafts. How about buying alternative Christmas presents this year like smoked sausages, jams, reindeer jerky, sweets or handcrafted presents like traditional holiday decorations, arts & crafts or knitwear.<br />
742. <br />
743. <a href="http://www.austria.info/uk/winter-holidays-austria/christmas-markets-in-vienna-1428274.html"><b>Vienna</b></a><br />
744. <br />
745. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
746. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6Bx6fX11vCVKwWbz19krTIHQ6SGQz30AIezCYbz70ofERAY_DXaLvxGymswDyg2dlmhgav7TY8KfbGAGjhBGLpvlbBkF4DN0WdyfMcbitgQP30_V7Bvf0yxD3V1_Wsk7W8dcRFCrJoc/s1600/iStock_000018651436Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI6Bx6fX11vCVKwWbz19krTIHQ6SGQz30AIezCYbz70ofERAY_DXaLvxGymswDyg2dlmhgav7TY8KfbGAGjhBGLpvlbBkF4DN0WdyfMcbitgQP30_V7Bvf0yxD3V1_Wsk7W8dcRFCrJoc/s1600/iStock_000018651436Small.jpg" height="320" width="261" /></a></div>
747. <br />
748. <br />
749. From the 22nd November to the 26th December 2014, Vienna’s prettiest squares transform into magical Christmas markets with the air filled with aromas of fresh Christmas bakery and hot berry punch. Traditional Christmas tree decorations, wooden toys, gingerbread hearts and roast chestnuts are on sale as well as carols being sung at many of the markets. The ‘December Market’ in Vienna dates back to 1294 and is regarded by some as the forerunner of the Christmas Markets.<br />
750. <br />
751. <b>Don’t forget your travel insurance</b><br />
752. <br />
753. If you are tempted by any of these Christmas markets, make sure you take the time to purchase adequate travel insurance. Here at Free Spirit we can provide you and your travelling companions with specialist insurance to cover you for such things as cancellation and emergency medical expenses which is especially important if you have a pre-existing medical condition*.<br />
754. <br />
755. Whilst we hope you won’t need to use the policy, it will give you that extra peace of mind so you can enjoy your trip.<br />
756. <br />
757. Whatever you do and wherever you go this Christmas, we wish you a super time!<br />
758. <br />
759. *terms and conditions apply; see the &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/documents/FreeSpirit_Policy(11-1314).pdf&quot; rel=&quot;nofollow&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;policy wording&lt;/a&gt; for full details of the cover provided.</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/6501745398705095197/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/10/a-selection-of-best-european-christmas-markets-2014.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/6501745398705095197'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/6501745398705095197'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/10/a-selection-of-best-european-christmas-markets-2014.html' title='A selection of the best European Christmas Markets to visit in 2014'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTMIci7iU8iU1wcvRHzuX4GVLAajjzjjj7IOfDtK2bGYQWVpWxEgL0-AYK9kFq0QXI1zIgesgwPVskN5WG3I3sq-fua6eJLtL2vu_avCGw2rrqW65Ey9V4cXqG4CtfcI8YZ_MAIoygrtE/s72-c/iStock_000017766651Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-900765632195177259</id><published>2014-09-12T14:35:00.000+01:00</published><updated>2014-09-12T14:35:44.485+01:00</updated><title type='text'>How does the Ebola outbreak affect your travel plans to Africa?</title><content type='html'>I have no doubt that over the last few months you will have heard or read about the epidemic of Ebola virus disease that is on-going in a number of countries in West Africa. The outbreak began in Guinea in December 2013, but was not detected until March 2014, after which it spread to Nigeria, Liberia and Sierra Leone.&lt;br /&gt;
760. <br />
761. <b>What is Ebola Virus Disease?</b><br />
762. <br />
763. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Uxz2N5qE0pu5N8_jgaUAZOGNvTARaL6xAa3zQ_HlLneyCZ8uYKmNbLHeaoCAndPWg3sw5UIyK-yBlSTA3igGH1A3kgAT6wgh7gscENLEbx_ZOEssxbDKfKfMDoFT5czCYWGsER5bxcQ/s1600/iStock_000009481090Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Uxz2N5qE0pu5N8_jgaUAZOGNvTARaL6xAa3zQ_HlLneyCZ8uYKmNbLHeaoCAndPWg3sw5UIyK-yBlSTA3igGH1A3kgAT6wgh7gscENLEbx_ZOEssxbDKfKfMDoFT5czCYWGsER5bxcQ/s1600/iStock_000009481090Small.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a><a href="http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ebola-virus/Pages/Ebola-virus.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NHS Choices</a> advises; Ebola was first identified in Africa in the mid-1970s, it is a serious, usually fatal, disease.  An infected person will typically develop a fever, headache, joint and muscle pain, sore throat, and intense muscle weakness. These symptoms start suddenly, between 2 and 21 days after becoming infected, but usually after 5-7 days. Diarrhoea, vomiting, a rash, stomach pain and impaired kidney and liver function follow. The patient then bleeds internally and may also bleed from the ears, eyes, nose or mouth. Ebola virus disease is fatal in 50-90% of cases. The sooner a person is given care, the better the chances that they will survive.<br />
764. <br />
765. <b>How is Ebola spread?</b><br />
766. <br />
767. Most infections result from direct infected human contact with bodily fluids or secretions. Ebola has also been reported following contact with the tissues of infected animals such as non-human primates and bats and it is not an airborne disease.<br />
768. <br />
769. <b>How can I keep safe?</b><br />
770. <br />
771. Although the chances of being infected remain low there are measures you can take whilst travelling to prevent catching Ebola, recommended by <a href="http://www.nathnac.org/travel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The National Travel Health Network and Centre</a>:<br />
772. <br />
773. <a name='more'></a><br />
774. <ul>
775. <li>Avoid contact with symptomatic patients and their bodily fluids</li>
776. <li>Avoid contact with corpses and/or bodily fluids from deceased patients</li>
777. <li>Avoid close contact with live or dead wild animals </li>
778. <li>Avoid consumption of ‘bush meat’</li>
779. <li>Wash and peel fruits and vegetables before consumption</li>
780. <li>Practise safe sex</li>
781. <li>Follow strict hand washing routines</li>
782. </ul>
783. <b>How serious is the outbreak?</b><br />
784. <br />
785. It is the most severe <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Ebola_outbreaks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">outbreak of Ebola</a> in terms of the number of human cases and deaths since the discovery of the virus in 1976, with the number of cases from the current outbreak now outnumbering the combined cases from all known previous outbreaks.  As of 28 August 2014, the <a href="http://www.who.int/csr/don/archive/disease/ebola/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">World Health Organization (WHO)</a> reported a total of 3,069 suspected cases and 1,552 deaths. Many experts believe that the official numbers substantially understate the size of the outbreak because of families’ widespread reluctance to report cases.<br />
786. <br />
787. <b>How will this affect my travel plans to Africa?</b><br />
788. <br />
789. With an increasing number of confirmed and suspected cases in West Africa there are bound to be concerns from travellers across the world. If you have previously travelled to Africa you will know how important it is to protect yourself against infectious diseases with the appropriate vaccinations but, in this case, there is no protection. There are no licensed vaccines or treatments available, patients need to be placed in isolation in intensive care while the body fights the disease.<br />
790. <br />
791. Last month the World Health Organisation met with the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee, declaring the Ebola outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. However, they have recommended there should be no general ban on international travel. They have recommended in countries that are infected, that they should conduct exit screening of all persons at international airports, seaports and major land crossings and there should be no international travel of Ebola contacts or cases, unless the travel is part of an appropriate medical evacuation.<br />
792. <br />
793. <b>Am I still covered by my travel insurance?</b><br />
794. <b><br /></b>
795. It is only natural for you to question how this epidemic could affect your travel plans and more importantly, your travel insurance. As of the 2nd September 2014 <a href="https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/liberia" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO)</a> has not restricted travel to any of the highly infected countries. However, if you do have confirmed travel plans for later in the year to West Africa, it is important to check the FCO website on a daily basis for their travel advice, just in case it does advise against travelling to the countries listed above as well as the <a href="http://www.who.int/csr/don/archive/disease/ebola/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">World Health Organization (WHO)</a> <br />
796. <br />
797. Free Spirit takes their advices direct from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, the World Health Organization or similar bodies and will only insure you for travel to places that these bodies  considers ‘safe’. So check the position before making your booking and taking out your Free Spirit policy. If you decided to travel to a country or area against such advice, you will not be covered by your travel insurance policy. If you have made plans to travel to other parts of Africa and then decide you would prefer not to travel ‘just in case’, then you would not be insured for cancellation, as it would be considered to be ‘a disinclination’ to travel and this is not covered within the terms and conditions of the policy.<br />
798. <br />
799. For details of the Free Spirit travel insurance benefits read our <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/documents/FreeSpirit_Policy(11-1314).pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">policy wording</a> and keep up to date with world events on the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/foreign-commonwealth-office" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">FCO</a> and <a href="http://www.who.int/en/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">WHO</a> website.<br />
800. <br />
801. <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify; vertical-align: baseline;">
802. <span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
803. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/900765632195177259/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/09/how-does-ebola-outbreak-affect-your-travel-plans-to-africa.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/900765632195177259'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/900765632195177259'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/09/how-does-ebola-outbreak-affect-your-travel-plans-to-africa.html' title='How does the Ebola outbreak affect your travel plans to Africa?'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Uxz2N5qE0pu5N8_jgaUAZOGNvTARaL6xAa3zQ_HlLneyCZ8uYKmNbLHeaoCAndPWg3sw5UIyK-yBlSTA3igGH1A3kgAT6wgh7gscENLEbx_ZOEssxbDKfKfMDoFT5czCYWGsER5bxcQ/s72-c/iStock_000009481090Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-1890005279701009364</id><published>2014-09-09T15:31:00.002+01:00</published><updated>2014-09-09T15:46:18.091+01:00</updated><title type='text'>Cut the risk of cancer by exercising every day</title><content type='html'>Most people would associate regular exercise with playing a key role in preventing heart disease and keeping the heart fit and strong. However, would you associate exercise with cutting the risk of cancer? Most cancers are caused by lifestyle factors and not always genes, so for an overall healthy lifestyle we should all be taking part in at least 30 minutes exercise a day and not just changing our diet.&lt;br /&gt;
804. <br />
805. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QAH1fjKoirmKQym4OB0r8L4AIeJA8whnnsxxrhhT1EFdK1TsB248jol9jg7c4wyEN7wVuGykqo3urk7HEqyGCI9elkgfqfBW0Yc2Tl1dTVchaxZwqlcewgdQfZU3sRmNS0B2sm9e4pw/s1600/iStock_000012350605Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QAH1fjKoirmKQym4OB0r8L4AIeJA8whnnsxxrhhT1EFdK1TsB248jol9jg7c4wyEN7wVuGykqo3urk7HEqyGCI9elkgfqfBW0Yc2Tl1dTVchaxZwqlcewgdQfZU3sRmNS0B2sm9e4pw/s1600/iStock_000012350605Small.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a>I have become more aware of my own personal health as I venture into the second half of being a 40 year old and I am conscious more now than ever of how much exercise I do on a daily basis. Regular physical activity can help maintain or improve your health, prevent or reduce the loss of muscle tone and increase your aerobic fitness. Exercise can also help to avoid or alleviate some side effects of cancer treatments such as fatigue and weight gain along with improvements to your mood and a reduction in anxiety and depression.<br />
806. <br />
807. Women with high oestrogen levels in their blood have increased risk for breast cancer. Since exercise lowers blood oestrogen, it helps lower a woman’s breast-cancer risk. Even older women need to be concerned about oestrogen, because after menopause the hormone is produced by fat cells. Women who exercise have less fat and therefore produce less oestrogen.<br />
808. <br />
809. <a name='more'></a>According to national activity guidelines on the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-physical-activity-guidelines">GOV.UK</a> website, a good goal to achieve is to exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week, although to get the most benefit aim for about an hour a day. Moderate intensity activities such as brisk walking may be sufficient, although there is more benefit with increased intensity such as cycling and running. It’s always worth checking with your treating consultant or doctor that you are able to participate in these activities first.<br />
810. <br />
811. <b>Get up off the settee - it’s easier than you think!</b><br />
812. <br />
813. A half hour of physical activity daily such as walking, slow swimming, leisurely bike riding or a round of golf will get you started. Here are some other ways to be more active:<br />
814. <br />
815. <ul>
816. <li>Use stairs rather than a lift or escalator. </li>
817. <li>Walk around the block after dinner. </li>
818. <li>Exercise at lunch with your work colleagues or family and friends. </li>
819. <li>Participate in a regular dance class. </li>
820. <li>Wear a pedometer every day and watch your daily steps increase. </li>
821. <li>Join a sports team like crown green bowling or badminton </li>
822. <li>Use a stationary bike or do sit-ups, leg lifts and push-ups while watching TV. </li>
823. <li>Park a little farther from your office, the shops or the library for a nice walk. </li>
824. <li>Vary your type of exercise so you won’t get bored or think it’s a chore. </li>
825. </ul>
826. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
827. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBitJcH-OxUVJcMDpSvBz9lxLt86Zmgm7i2xwY28ZHXmWpmW0PhdrQ6u5e2kRBrS5ooVbEvyDlkOntdvXBLhc9c874jyIjLfVMrCS-Z1eAmA5kQyNWdu-6uNjqgPcpl1L7fnvVeZuEy3E/s1600/iStock_000022969755XSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBitJcH-OxUVJcMDpSvBz9lxLt86Zmgm7i2xwY28ZHXmWpmW0PhdrQ6u5e2kRBrS5ooVbEvyDlkOntdvXBLhc9c874jyIjLfVMrCS-Z1eAmA5kQyNWdu-6uNjqgPcpl1L7fnvVeZuEy3E/s1600/iStock_000022969755XSmall.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
828. Often people will view exercise as just a way to lose weight and change their appearance and yes these incentives can be effective. But exercise is really about a person taking charge of their own health, preventing chronic diseases like cancer and living longer. It's never too late to start whether you are 18 or 68.<br />
829. <br />
830. Walking is a great form of exercise and if you are considering booking an autumn break why not consider a walking holiday in the great British countryside. It’s no surprise that the UK is among the world’s most popular destinations. There are walking holidays to suit every traveller of every age and better still, Free Spirit can cover you even if you decide to stay close to home. Terms and conditions apply of course!<br />
831. <br />
832. So what are you waiting for, get your boots on and stride towards to a new fitter future!</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/1890005279701009364/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/09/cut-risk-of-cancer-by-exercising-every-day.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/1890005279701009364'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/1890005279701009364'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/09/cut-risk-of-cancer-by-exercising-every-day.html' title='Cut the risk of cancer by exercising every day'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8QAH1fjKoirmKQym4OB0r8L4AIeJA8whnnsxxrhhT1EFdK1TsB248jol9jg7c4wyEN7wVuGykqo3urk7HEqyGCI9elkgfqfBW0Yc2Tl1dTVchaxZwqlcewgdQfZU3sRmNS0B2sm9e4pw/s72-c/iStock_000012350605Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-2511127472570536295</id><published>2014-08-27T11:37:00.000+01:00</published><updated>2014-08-27T11:39:37.443+01:00</updated><title type='text'>Bardarbunga Volcano in Iceland and travel insurance</title><content type='html'>On Tuesday, 26 August 2014 the Icelandic Meteorological Office confirmed that a 5.7 earthquake had hit &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.theguardian.com/world/iceland&quot; rel=&quot;nofollow&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;Iceland&lt;/a&gt;&#39;s Bardarbunga volcano overnight, the biggest since tremors began 11 days before. However, there remains no sign of an eruption at this time. &lt;br /&gt;
833. <br />
834. Although the risk level had been raised to red at one point, it has been lowered back to orange and the situation is still being monitored closely. Last week, the aviation industry were warned about the possibility of flight disruptions should an explosive sub-glacial eruption, leading to an outburst flood and ash emission occur.<br />
835. <br />
836. <b>So what cover could you now have under your travel insurance policy? </b><br />
837. <br />
838. <div>
839. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIgRqDAnRyM6QkX5TnoSHwURN1471PL1dBj_j2sLqi4cmUIbrpoK8dAvHT97qMzqns53Yo6OSISR1lyBCVmWleq0F-WEkO3g5ltSZa_OAlq-Lp8gRltD6kxCY3tSz8cicN-big0Pa_q0/s1600/iStock_000016753693Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIgRqDAnRyM6QkX5TnoSHwURN1471PL1dBj_j2sLqi4cmUIbrpoK8dAvHT97qMzqns53Yo6OSISR1lyBCVmWleq0F-WEkO3g5ltSZa_OAlq-Lp8gRltD6kxCY3tSz8cicN-big0Pa_q0/s1600/iStock_000016753693Small.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>With memories of 2010 when 100,000 flights were cancelled with an estimated 10 million passengers stranded or delayed around the world when much of Europe’s airspace was shut down for 6 days due to the ash cloud produced by the eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull volcano, travellers remain concerned about the disruption of their travel plans. <br />
840. <br />
841. If you are due to travel and are concerned that you may be caught up in similar travel delays as a result of an eruption of Bardarbunga, it would be wise to check your travel insurance to see if it includes cover for disruption due to volcanic activity or ash cloud. Not all travel insurance policies include cover for volcanic ash or journey disruption due to airspace closure. <br />
842. <br />
843. Your Broker or Insurer should be able to clarify the position for you, if you are unsure. Most Insurers will require that you have purchased your policy and/or booked your trip before activity around Bardarbunga was known.</div>
844. <div>
845. <br />
846. <a name='more'></a><b> Free Spirit travel insurance (Super Duper only)</b> includes cover for journey disruption and airspace closure in the event you have to cancel (up to £3,000) or incur additional expenses (up to £1,000) as a result of disruption caused by a natural disaster including a volcanic eruption. Please note that cover only applies if you have booked individual elements of your trip separately. You will need to contact your tour operator or travel agent in respect of pre-paid costs relating to a package holiday. As mentioned above, Free Spirit Insurers will only provide cover if you bought your Super Duper policy and/or booked your trip before activity around Bardarbunga was known.<br />
847. <br />
848. Please read the Free Spirit <a href="http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/documents/FreeSpirit_Policy(11-1314).pdf"><b>Policy Booklet</b></a> for our full terms and conditions of the journey disruption including airspace closure cover to make sure it is suitable for you.<br />
849. <br /></div>
850. </content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/2511127472570536295/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/08/bardarbunga-volcano-in-iceland-and-travel-insurance.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/2511127472570536295'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/2511127472570536295'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/08/bardarbunga-volcano-in-iceland-and-travel-insurance.html' title='Bardarbunga Volcano in Iceland and travel insurance'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIgRqDAnRyM6QkX5TnoSHwURN1471PL1dBj_j2sLqi4cmUIbrpoK8dAvHT97qMzqns53Yo6OSISR1lyBCVmWleq0F-WEkO3g5ltSZa_OAlq-Lp8gRltD6kxCY3tSz8cicN-big0Pa_q0/s72-c/iStock_000016753693Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-5938350309689225980</id><published>2014-08-22T15:16:00.002+01:00</published><updated>2014-08-22T15:17:02.128+01:00</updated><title type='text'>Handy hints for travelling abroad</title><content type='html'>Don&#39;t miss your flight - allow extra time for traffic jams, parking and queues at check-in. Ensure you have all your documents at hand and don&#39;t pack them in your hold baggage.&lt;br /&gt;
851. <br />
852. If you don't fancy the taste or cost of the in-flight meals, eat beforehand or better still, make a pack-up to take with you. Small food bags with nibbles & fruit are great for children.<br />
853. <br />
854. Having a few drinks on the plane is fun and gets you in the holiday 'spirit', but be careful not to over  overindulge!<br />
855. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
856. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJfHs-pBXWwWa3Un-T2126D66HHA_mznlQMQQB6TQop0ZTd8WjmWjYOSLKg_48MO-EjRJGjO9S3ol0J4vhFxOmKqifYUAsvD7vAyBHZTw1XWEZAp9Tof5QpczdNG0CqpfM1mBF6jA7ljo/s1600/iStock_000016456064XSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJfHs-pBXWwWa3Un-T2126D66HHA_mznlQMQQB6TQop0ZTd8WjmWjYOSLKg_48MO-EjRJGjO9S3ol0J4vhFxOmKqifYUAsvD7vAyBHZTw1XWEZAp9Tof5QpczdNG0CqpfM1mBF6jA7ljo/s1600/iStock_000016456064XSmall.jpg" height="319" width="320" /></a></div>
857. <br />
858. Stay hydrated, drink plenty of water and fruit juices but avoid too much caffeine; you don't want to be 'buzzing' when you should be asleep. <br />
859. <br />
860. Set your watch to your destination time zone as soon as you get on the plane, and use that time when deciding when to sleep as it will help with the jetlag. <br />
861. <br />
862. Earplugs are your friend, so is an eye mask and when you have it on you won’t know if anyone is looking at you, when your hair starts to form a peak on top of your head!<br />
863. <br />
864. Learning to eat using plastic utensils with your elbows tucked in and your knees pressed up against the table is an essential flying skill.  Start practising now by sitting in a cardboard box during your next meal!<br />
865. <br />
866. <a name='more'></a>Get up and go for a walk now and again when you’re in the air.  It’s good for the circulation and helps relieve the crushing boredom of a long haul flight, even if only slightly.<br />
867. <br />
868. If you have to spend half a day in planes and airports, toothpaste will change your life.<br />
869. <br />
870. Time your toilet breaks well, don’t leave it too late when the flight starts to make its final approach. You don’t know how long it may take to get through border control for you to find the closest facilities.<br />
871. <br />
872. When it comes to conversations with border officials, less is more.  Answer questions truthfully but don’t volunteer too much.<br />
873. <br />
874. Distinctive luggage is a good thing.  Surprising as it might seem, yours will not be the only black suitcase on the conveyor belt. Tie a bright coloured ribbon around the handle or buy a suitable luggage strap that you can recognise.<br />
875. <br />
876. Having a change of underwear in your carry-on bag will be the smartest move you've ever made if the airline loses your bags.<br />
877. <br />
878. Being polite goes a very long way, a smile goes even further. <br />
879. <br />
880. If you cannot speak the local lingo, remember it’s your problem not theirs that they don’t speak English. A lack of a common language does not equate to deafness, so speaking more loudly will not help!<br />
881. <br />
882. Get out of your comfort zone, try the local food and drink and do things that you wouldn't go near in your normal life. Holidays are for trying new things and being adventurous.<br />
883. <br />
884. Don’t expect things to be the same as at home, things will be different when you’re in a foreign country.<br />
885. <br />
886. Public transport is a great way to travel if you like to explore, it can also be the bane of your life as it may not be as reliant as at home.<br />
887. <br />
888. Speak to the locals, don’t stay a stranger.  If you had wanted to spend all day with people just like yourself, it would have been much cheaper just to stay at home!<br />
889. <br />
890. Keep your holiday funds & valuables locked away. If there isn't a safe in the hotel room, check with the reception as they may be located elsewhere. Treat your passport as if it were made of gold, it’s not quite the end of the world if you lose it but it’ll feel like it at the time. <br />
891. <br />
892. Take a small first aid kit and find out where the local medical centre is. If you go to the beach, most life guards will have treatments for jelly fish stings but you may need plasters for blisters and painkillers for the morning after.<br />
893. <br />
894. The best tip I can give you is to buy specialist travel insurance so that you have the peace of mind that you and your travelling companions are protected should things go wrong while you are away. There will always be someone at the end of phone to help you in a medical emergency.<br />
895. <br />
896. Keep your travel insurance documents close at hand, just in case! Why not email it to your smart phone to save carrying lots of paper around. Make sure more than one person in the party has details of it should you get split up or worse still lose your phone.<br />
897. <br />
898. Holidays are for exploring new countries, indulging in different food choices, experiencing diverse cultures, relaxing, laughing and most importantly sharing quality time with family and friends. Don’t let a standard travel insurance policy get in the way of you doing all of this, buy a Free Spirit travel cover today!</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/5938350309689225980/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/08/handy-hints-for-travelling-abroad.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/5938350309689225980'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/5938350309689225980'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/08/handy-hints-for-travelling-abroad.html' title='Handy hints for travelling abroad'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJfHs-pBXWwWa3Un-T2126D66HHA_mznlQMQQB6TQop0ZTd8WjmWjYOSLKg_48MO-EjRJGjO9S3ol0J4vhFxOmKqifYUAsvD7vAyBHZTw1XWEZAp9Tof5QpczdNG0CqpfM1mBF6jA7ljo/s72-c/iStock_000016456064XSmall.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-3441151463613171321</id><published>2014-08-20T16:31:00.001+01:00</published><updated>2014-08-20T16:31:25.757+01:00</updated><title type='text'>Will the possible Volcanic Eruption of Bardarbunga in Iceland affect your Travel Plans?</title><content type='html'>Earlier today the aviation industry has been warned about the possibility of flight disruptions, due to the intense seismic activity over the last few days of the Bardarbunga volcano in Iceland. Iceland&#39;s Met Office has raised the risk level to orange which means minor activity or eruption warning. This is the second highest warning level out of five, although there have been no signs of eruption at this stage.&lt;br /&gt;
899. <br />
900. The Met Office said in a statement that the strongest earthquake in the region since 1996 was recorded early on Monday.<br />
901. <br />
902. It said: "As evidence of magma movement shallower than 10km (6.2 miles) implies increased potential of a volcanic eruption, the Bardarbunga aviation colour code has been changed to orange. Presently there are no signs of eruption, but it cannot be excluded that the current activity will result in an explosive sub-glacial eruption, leading to an outburst flood and ash emission. The situation is monitored closely."<br />
903. <br />
904. <a name='more'></a>You may remember in 2010, much of Europe’s airspace was shut down for 6 days due to the ash cloud produced by the eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull volcano. The disruption led to 100,000 flights being cancelled with an estimated 10 million passengers stranded or delayed around the world.<br />
905. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
906. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhE0rJMuAd22zu8MwVdL2Dagz2Rd8U632VWWlAhgCxLlk64SDTDFNKv4Cvx3K59Chunu7mKdoxc1iyFolTt6Ey1L1CMKBkGaeIs3shE2J6cPKsnAux_izjoLd1dwEha8tVnqgHAfWO9o/s1600/iStock_000016753693Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhE0rJMuAd22zu8MwVdL2Dagz2Rd8U632VWWlAhgCxLlk64SDTDFNKv4Cvx3K59Chunu7mKdoxc1iyFolTt6Ey1L1CMKBkGaeIs3shE2J6cPKsnAux_izjoLd1dwEha8tVnqgHAfWO9o/s1600/iStock_000016753693Small.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
907. <br />
908. Were you affected by the events of 2010 and if you had already booked your holiday, were you successful in claiming your pre-paid costs from your travel insurance provider? If you have already booked your holiday or you have yet to decide where to holiday, Free Spirit suggests that air travellers check their travel insurance to ensure that they adequately covered for the direct and indirect costs of flight cancellations. <br />
909. <br />
910. Not all travel insurance policies provide cover for volcanic ash or journey disruption due to airspace closure. This special cover enables you to cancel your holiday and make a claim for your pre-paid costs if your flight is disrupted before you leave home. Journey disruption can sometimes pay for the additional expense of finding alternative transport home, if your airline does not provide you with something else suitable.<br />
911. <br />
912. Volcanic ash cover will vary with different travel insurance providers and is not always included, so you should always read the terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy carefully to check exactly what is provided.<br />
913. <br />
914. Free Spirit travel insurance (Super Duper only) automatically covers journey disruption and airspace closure and in the event you have to cancel (up to £3,000) or incur additional expenses (up to £1,000) as a result of disruption caused by a natural disaster including a volcanic eruption. Cover only applies if you have booked individual elements of your trip separately, you will need to contact your tour operator or travel agent in respect of pre-paid costs relating to a package holiday.<br />
915. <br />
916. In order to be covered for volcanic ash cloud disruption you must have bought your travel insurance with volcanic ash cloud cover before a volcano erupts or the eruption threat warning turning red. So if you are about to fly to Iceland it’s not too late to get the travel insurance you need from Free Spirit. Most people will not even consider asking if volcanic ash cover is included in their travel policy but as you never know when the next volcano will erupt, it could be worth adding it just in case!<br />
917. <br />
918. Please read the Free Spirit &lt;a href=&quot;http://www.freespirittravelinsurance.com/documents/FreeSpirit_Policy(11-1314).pdf&quot;&gt;Policy Booklet&lt;/a&gt; for our full terms and conditions of the journey disruption including airspace closure cover to make sure it is suitable for you.</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/3441151463613171321/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/08/will-possible-volcanic-eruption-of.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/3441151463613171321'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/3441151463613171321'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/08/will-possible-volcanic-eruption-of.html' title='Will the possible Volcanic Eruption of Bardarbunga in Iceland affect your Travel Plans?'/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdhE0rJMuAd22zu8MwVdL2Dagz2Rd8U632VWWlAhgCxLlk64SDTDFNKv4Cvx3K59Chunu7mKdoxc1iyFolTt6Ey1L1CMKBkGaeIs3shE2J6cPKsnAux_izjoLd1dwEha8tVnqgHAfWO9o/s72-c/iStock_000016753693Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3673100182745920590.post-1780193690721230006</id><published>2014-08-08T17:07:00.000+01:00</published><updated>2014-08-08T17:07:33.848+01:00</updated><title type='text'>UK holidaymakers risk breaking the law on holiday, due to a lack of research.  </title><content type='html'>It seems very few people make the effort to learn local foreign laws before travelling abroad, although most believe it would be useful to do so, according to a survey conducted by the Foreign &amp;amp; Commonwealth Office (FCO).&lt;br /&gt;
919. <br />
920. As many as 70% of people surveyed said researching local laws and customs would make their holiday more enjoyable, but fewer than half would actually make this research part of their holiday preparations. I have to be honest and say I have never thought about looking at foreign laws when travelling abroad. If I am hiring a car I will always research the countries road rules, but when it comes to local laws I would not know, for example, that it is an offence for anyone including children to wear camouflage clothing in Grenada; would you?<br />
921. <br />
922. When I have looked at some of the local foreign laws I was astounded to read that you could get hauled up for unlikely offences such as:<br />
923. <br />
924. <b>Spain</b><br />
925. <br />
926. In some parts of Spain it’s against the law to be in the street wearing only a bikini or swimming shorts/trunks. Being bare-chested has also been banned. Some local councils will impose fines if you’re caught wearing swimwear on the seafront promenade or the adjacent streets.<br />
927. <br />
928. <a name='more'></a><b>United Arab Emirates</b> <br />
929. <br />
930. Electronic cigarettes are illegal in the UAE and are likely to be confiscated at the border.<br />
931. <br />
932. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEURJOnrYdLghsLMEKHhoKL8HT8p30ECkeef_Q5PKdhBVuENyEdLuReTmXsVKlG_Zn148dTMIEPKB6zN-nkI1IQzebGiFt8S3yhSXVL0smiSMdfNbL2ovkz0ZvjQ5O4ym5ZRgFE7n-I1M/s1600/iStock_000010700580Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEURJOnrYdLghsLMEKHhoKL8HT8p30ECkeef_Q5PKdhBVuENyEdLuReTmXsVKlG_Zn148dTMIEPKB6zN-nkI1IQzebGiFt8S3yhSXVL0smiSMdfNbL2ovkz0ZvjQ5O4ym5ZRgFE7n-I1M/s1600/iStock_000010700580Small.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a><b>Hong Kong</b><br />
933. <br />
934. The Hong Kong SAR Government has restrictions in place on the quantity of powdered baby formula allowed for persons departing the territory. Penalties for non compliance are severe.<br />
935. <div>
936. </div>
937. <br />
938. <b>Morocco</b><br />
939. <br />
940. Homosexuality is a criminal offence in Morocco. Sexual relations outside marriage are also punishable by law. It is not uncommon for hotels to ask couples to show evidence of marriage at the time of check-in, and if such evidence is not available to insist on separate rooms.<br />
941. <br />
942. <b>Singapore</b><br />
943. <br />
944. You will be fined for smoking in any public place or indoor restaurant and for chewing gum on the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system.<br />
945. <br />
946. FCO Minister Mark Simmonds said: “It’s easy to throw caution to the wind when on holiday but it’s important to be aware of the local laws and customs before you set off. We want people to enjoy their holidays so we encourage them to be prepared. Laws and customs vary widely from country to country and visitors should respect them to avoid causing offence or even being arrested. Spending five minutes reading our travel advice may save travellers a lot of time in the long run.”<br />
947. <br />
948. In the event you do fall foul of the law and end up in a sticky situation, your first point of contact could be the nearest British embassy, high commission or consulate. They can all give advice on local laws and procedures, contact friends and family and help find legal help, if necessary.<br />
949. <br />
950. The same good advice about research goes for checking if there have been any changes to the countries entry requirements for example:<br />
951. <br />
952. <ul>
953. <li>Tourists travelling to <a href="https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/turkey/entry-requirements">Turkey</a> must have a passport valid for at least 60 days from expiry date of their visitor visa, as of January 2015.</li>
954. <li>New requirements have been introduced in <a href="https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa/entry-requirements">South Africa</a> for parents travelling in or out of the country with children.</li>
955. </ul>
956. If you generally book your holiday via a travel agent or tour operator, don’t rely on them to do the leg work for you and expect them to supply this information for you. Ultimately the responsibility will fall with you and if you are caught out, they may not be able to help you. Also remember, if the FCO advises against all travel to a particular country because they think there may be a considerable risk, if you decide to continue with your travel plans, your travel insurance may not pay out. Always check with your insurance provider before you go just in case!<br />
957. <br />
958. I am travelling to the USA later this year and I know I shall be looking into the local laws so I don’t get caught out. I will also be checking the FCO website for more details about how to <a href="https://www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo">stay safe & healthy when travelling.</a><br />
959. <br />
960. Travelling abroad should be for everyone, but we can’t expect the same rules to apply abroad, as they do in the UK. Prepare in advance to make sure you get the most from your holiday and more importantly, that you return home without incident.</content><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/feeds/1780193690721230006/comments/default' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/08/uk-holidaymakers-risk-breaking-law-on-holiday.html#comment-form' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/1780193690721230006'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/3673100182745920590/posts/default/1780193690721230006'/><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://blog.freespirittravelinsurance.com/2014/08/uk-holidaymakers-risk-breaking-law-on-holiday.html' title='UK holidaymakers risk breaking the law on holiday, due to a lack of research.  '/><author><name>Unknown</name><email>noreply@blogger.com</email><gd:image rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#thumbnail' width='16' height='16' src='https://img1.blogblog.com/img/b16-rounded.gif'/></author><media:thumbnail xmlns:media="http://search.yahoo.com/mrss/" url="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEURJOnrYdLghsLMEKHhoKL8HT8p30ECkeef_Q5PKdhBVuENyEdLuReTmXsVKlG_Zn148dTMIEPKB6zN-nkI1IQzebGiFt8S3yhSXVL0smiSMdfNbL2ovkz0ZvjQ5O4ym5ZRgFE7n-I1M/s72-c/iStock_000010700580Small.jpg" height="72" width="72"/><thr:total>0</thr:total></entry></feed>

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