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INSURANCE |
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New Zealand's accident compensation scheme no longer provides
preferential treatment for touring Brits so you'll probably need some
travel insurance. Insurance premiums vary according to the level of
coverage: pricier policies tend to be more comprehensive while others
may cover only certain risks (accidents, illnesses, delayed or lost
luggage, cancelled flights, etc). In particular, ask whether the policy
pays medical costs up front or reimburses you later, and whether it
provides for medical evacuation to your home country. Note also that
very few insurers will arrange on-the-spot payments in the event of a
major loss; you will usually be reimbursed only after going home. In all
cases of loss or theft of goods, you will have to contact the local
police to have a report made out so that your insurer can process the
claim.
While in New Zealand you are quite likely to be participating in what
are considered to be " dangerous activities " (skiing, mountaineering -
even tramping qualifies under some policies), so be sure to ask whether
these activities are covered: most companies have supplementary policies
covering you for pretty much everything except bungy jumping.
Some insurance companies refuse to cover travellers over 65 , and most
that do charge hefty premiums; some of the best policies for older
travellers, and some indispensable advise, are offered by Age Concern (tel
01883/834 887).
Before buying an insurance policy, Americans and Canadians should check
that they're not already covered. Canadian provincial health plans
typically provide some overseas medical coverage , although they are
unlikely to pick up the full tab in the event of a mishap. Holders of
official student/teacher/youth cards are entitled to accident coverage
and hospital in-patient benefits - the annual membership is far less
than the cost of comparable insurance. Students may also find that their
health coverage extends during the vacations and for one term beyond the
date of last enrolment, and homeowners' or renters' insurance often
covers theft or loss of documents, money and valuables while overseas.
Rough Guides travel insurance
Rough Guides now offer their own travel insurance , customized for our
readers by a leading UK broker and backed by a Lloyds underwriter. It's
available for anyone, of any nationality, travelling anywhere in the
world, and we are convinced that this is the best-value scheme you'll
find.
There are two main Rough Guide insurance plans: Essential , for
effective, no-frills cover, starting at £11.75 for 2 weeks; and Premier
- more expensive but with more generous and extensive benefits. Each
offer European or Worldwide cover, and can be supplemented with a "Hazardous
Activities Premium" if you plan to indulge in sports considered
dangerous, such as skiing, scuba-diving or trekking. Unlike many
policies, the Rough Guides schemes are calculated by the day, so if
you're travelling for 27 days rather than a month, that's all you pay
for. You can alternatively take out annual multi-trip insurance , which
covers you for all your travel throughout the year (with a maximum of 60
days for any one trip).
For a policy quote , call the Rough Guides Insurance Line on UK freefone
0800/015 0906, or, if you're calling from outside Britain on (+44) 1243
621 046. Alternatively, get an online quote at www.roughguides.com/insurance
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