(NAPSA)—Cruises are among the most popular romantic vaca- tions for Americans. In fact, cou- ples account for more than 79 percent of all cruisers who typically go for six or more days, spending an average of $1,690, not includ- ing airfare, according to Cruise Lines International Association. That “sweetheart” deal can turn sour, however, if couples do not research and prepare to make sure everything goes smoothly at sea. Travel insurance is a good way to avoid commontravel problems, according to one expert. “In the 16 years I’ve been cruising, I’ve seen manypeople fall ill and be takenoff the ship in port or even evacuated at sea by helicopter,” said travel writer Anita DunhamPotter. “All cruise vacationers should buy travel insurance.” Be careful though—someplans are better than others. Cruise lines usually sell insurance but it is often restrictive, only covering the cruise itself, not delays due to missed connections, or additional expenses for flights, shore excur- sions, and accidents orillness that happen offof the ship. And cruise lines can’t cover themselves, so if the cruise company goes out of business, travelers will lose their trip and their money. On the other hand, a thirdparty travel insurer can reim- burse for the entire cost of the trip and offer a wide rangeoflife-saving and cost-effective benefits. ——— : = Smooth Sailing: Third-party travel insurance can reimburse for the entire cost of a trip and offer a wide range of benefits. For example, Access America, a leading travel insurance provider, said few people can afford medical evacuations. “Medical evacuations can cost more than $100,000 and must be paid up-front,” said Beth Godlin of Access America. The companyrecommends considering plans with coverage for: Missed connections Flights and shore excursions *Supplier default or bankruptcy * Lost or delayed baggage * Medical assistance, including emergency evacuations. The price of insurance ranges from 4 to 8 percent of trip cost, depending on the type of plan and the traveler’s age. For more information on travel insurance plans, visit www.access america.com or call (800) 2848300.
