Tag: lifestyle

As borders close, airlines reduce schedules and the FCO warns Britons against international travel, the wider tourism industry has seen a devastating decrease in revenue and demand. However, the wave of coronavirus losses is now hitting the UK’s domestic tourism industry, with VisitBritain predicting the tourism sector will lose approximately £11 billion in the summer months if the extensive lockdown measures continue until the August bank holiday weekend.

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With the Easter weekend fast approaching, the UK should be gearing up to a busy time for domestic trips, with families heading on camping trips and for days out to museums and other cultural hotspots.

According to the BBC, last year in April and May it is estimated that Britons took 10 million domestic holidays and in that time spent £2.1 billion.

However, with the government continuing to urge the nation to stay home, it could be a very different outlook for businesses this year.

One of the most heavily impacted areas is predicted to be seaside resorts where they rely largely on tourism for a majority of their income.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Susie Brown, owner of The Twenty One guesthouse explained the impact restricted movement has already had on bookings.

“It’s a very surreal situation actually. We’ve had so many cancellations, obviously,” she said.

“They started coming through in February, and they are still coming through now right the way through to August.

“At first when this happened we were so worried financially but now we’re all really more worried about our health.”

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Meanwhile, B&B owner from North Yorkshire pointed out other financial losses on top of cancellations as some business insurers say they can’t payout as the virus “isn’t on their list”.

Britons are further being urged to stay away from beaches, parks and other outdoor spaces after an increase in foot traffic sparked concerns about overcrowding.

Though Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said the government is “not planning any changes imminently” to social distancing rules, which currently allow for walks and daily exercise, measures have been taken to close some car parks and public spaces to deter people from driving to them.

“What we are doing is being absolutely clear that the current rules must be followed,” he said.

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“So I say this to the small minority of people who are breaking the rules or pushing the boundaries: you’re risking your own life and the lives of others and you’re making it harder for us all.”

It isn’t just hotels and resorts that are suffering monumental blows.

A museum owner from Brighton painted a picture of the massive changes his business has already experienced in the first few weeks of national isolation.

“We are losing out really seriously with no footfall, no visitors, no schools,” said Chris Littledale, founder of Brighton’s Toy and Model Museum.

“A beautiful museum has suddenly become a ghost museum because nobody is here.”

In a bid to help reduce financial devastation for hotels and other tourism businesses, Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis implores Britons to think about “ethics and morality” before asking for a cash refund.

Many hotels and other vendors are offering customers vouchers for future stays and experiences in a bid to curtail losses.

Those who would not find themselves in a “financial bind” by accepting vouchers over a refund are encouraged to do so.

He explains: “I would say in this day and age we are trying to keep as many companies surviving as we can.

“If you can take the voucher and that wouldn’t compromise you and your finances taking that voucher form this company may just be what keeps this company going and keeps its staff in a job.

“So I’m not telling anybody to do that, I’m saying we must all look at our own personal, ethics, morality and situation which is very important to decide how hard we are going to push in these unprecedented times.”

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Italian holiday hotspot Venice has put its obligatory entry fee for tourists on hold after the devastating effects of coronavirus. The controversial fee was due to come into action on June 1 2020, however, following a global lockdown, the city’s officials have decided to press pause on changes for now as part of a budget rethink.

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Originally due to come into action on July 1 2020, the charge would see tourists paying between three and eight euros per day to visit the city.

It would only apply to those heading into the canal filled region for day trips, no those staying overnight.

Plans stated that the council would levy the entry fee, which would start at a standard rate of €3, rise to €6 on busier days, and peak season entry would cost €8.

Those entering on boats or ships would pay €5 per day.

If visiting during “critical” periods including summer weekends they will have to pay €10 (£8.90) to access the World Heritage site which encompasses the city centre and islands of the Venice Lagoon.

However, as the city has been forced to close to tourists amid a global lockdown to tackle the pandemic, local officials have deemed the fee an unwise move to kick start their tourist season.

Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said that introducing the fee now would be “ill-timed”.

Despite the timing, though, Brugnaro remains positive about the future and said the administration has plans to bring “ a different kind of tourism in Venice” with a battle against overcrowding remaining at the forefront.

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The tourist charge will still go ahead in the future to help aid the local council’s plans, but will not begin on April 1, 2021, instead, a year later than initially planned.

Venice will continue to charge a tourist tax to those who visit the city once the pandemic has eased, but is allowing hotels and other tourist accommodation centres more time to declare it.

The budget also took into account other taxes which may be affected during the city’s closure.

A city that relies upon and thrives because of tourism, Venice has been hit hard by the impact of coronavirus.

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The Italian government has been called into action to help keep the city afloat.

This includes extending help to cover debts incurred by businesses as a result of forced closures and to maintain local public transport which has seen a major decrease in revenue with the lack of foot traffic.

he council remain positive about regaining their popularity in the future though, with Brugnaro saying “Venice is Venice.”

In recent years Venice authorities reported a number of antisocial situations with tourists at the centre, one of the main instigators for a change in tourism.

Last summer alone local police handed out 100 fines to tourists for anti-social behaviour in two months.

While the fee may not be on hand to tackle some of these issues initially, the government remain firm that they will continue to combat some of the problems brought about by tourism, and encourage positive tourism for the city.

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Coronavirus lockdown has put normal life on hold as across the world people are being told to stay at home and avoid going out unless absolutely essential. What’s more, a series of border lockdowns and travel bans have seen airlines, hotels and all kinds of travel plans thrown into a state of disarray.

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While experts have shared insight into how to get money back from tour operators and airlines, those with bookings closer to home may be left feeling dismayed.

Many Britons looking forward to spa treatments in the coming months could be left with spoiled plans as a result of closures.

However, Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis has revealed insight into what customers should do and how they can get a full refund, even if the spa or booking provider is not currently paying out.

Appearing on the Emma Barnett Show on BBC Radio 5 Live, the financial expert shared some of his top tips, as well as offering advice on when you should consider asking for a refund.

How can I get my money back?

The first port of call to getting a refund for your cancelled booking is to go directly to the spa accommodation itself or the booking service used to book the experience.

However, if customers are unable to get a refund this way, a chargeback may be the way to go.

Martin explains: “What you could try is a chargeback if you paid by debit or credit card.

“On both debit and credit card, you are entitled to a chargeback.

“Go to your bank and say: ‘Look I paid for this, there’s no service and they are offering me a voucher which is not what I intended and not in the terms and conditions when signed up.’”

A chargeback is a return of money to the consumer.

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According to consumer rights advocate Which?’s website: “Chargeback lets you ask your card provider to reverse a transaction on your credit or debit card.

“You have more rights if you spend more than £100 on your credit card.”

This is often favoured by merchants as it means taking the money back from a company, rather than the card provider itself having to payout.

Martin continues: “Now that’s probably the easiest attempt to try is to go for a chargeback, and there are guides online where you can read about credit and debit card chargebacks.”

What if the terms and conditions of my booking have changed?

Many travel and event organisers are now changing their terms and conditions amid the coronavirus to account for cancellations or disruptions due to the pandemic.

As Martin points out: “Clearly a change of terms and conditions is perfectly acceptable but the terms and conditions at the time you have booked are the ones you have signed up to.

“If the terms and conditions have been changed after you booked they should not relate to your booking.”

Customers who booked in advance should still be entitled to a refund, even if the new terms and conditions rule this out for new bookings.

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“It doesn’t matter what’s on the website now, what applies legally is the terms and conditions at the point you booked.

“Now, when you book something like this you are generally, in the event that they cancel, entitled to a full refund. Look, we are getting this with lots of companies including easyJet who are offering vouchers.

“What would I do? The problem with this is the only way of enforcing this is taking them to court.

“That involves them having the money and some of these companies, the way they work their cash flow, they may not have the cash to give the refund because of their payouts and the way they tend to be working.

“In normal times the legal answer is that it’s outrageous, sue them. But this is not normal times. They may not have the money.”

In what circumstances should I take a credit note or voucher?

Many travel, tour and experience providers – such as those who offer spa packages – are encouraging customers to take vouchers to rebook their plans in the future, rather than seek a refund.

Amid unprecedented economic times, businesses around the globe are falling into administration and rapidly running out of money.

Martin says customers should consider “ethics and morality” before pursuing a cash refund.

Those who would not find themselves in a “financial bind” by accepting vouchers over a refund are encouraged to do so.

He explains: “I would say in this day and age we are trying to keep as many companies surviving as we can.

“If you can take the voucher and that wouldn’t compromise you and your finances taking that voucher form this company may just be what keeps this company going and keeps its staff in a job.

“So I’m not telling anybody to do that, I’m saying we must all look at our own personal, ethics, morality and situation which is very important to decide how hard we are going to push in these unprecedented times.”

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Flights result in plane passengers sitting nearby others in close proximity. Consequently, whatever your neighbours end up doing during the flight – you’ll likely get an eyeful. This was certainly the case for a flier on one particular flight.

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The spectacle they were witness to was captured in a photo which has gone viral.

The image was shared by Instagram account passengershaming.

It shows a couple in their plane seats on a row by the window.

However, they’re engaged in a very unusual activity.

Most people tend to occupy themselves with books, magazines or digital entertainment.

These two have opted for a much more intimate move.

The male passenger has swivelled in his seat and leant back so his top half rests on the lap of the woman next to him.

She has her left arm rising on his torso as she engages in an alarming grooming activity.

The woman is holding a pair of tweezers and they are pressed to the man’s cheeks.

It’s not entirely clear what she is doing but perhaps she is squeezing a spot or plucking out a stray hair.

In any case, it’s a bizarre move for a plane cabin – but neither seem too fazed by what others might think.

Instagram users have been utterly disgusted by the sight.

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They have flocked to social media to share their opinions.

“People are gross,” one person commented on the photo.

“Holy s***…beyond disgusting!!” another added.

“Can this not wait until they land??” a third asked.

Others viewed the strange spectacle in a rather more positive light, with one person writing: “They must be in love.”

Another commented: “The seatbelt is locked, so I think it’s alright.”

A third pointed out: “Well heck, ya gotta do *something* to pass the time!”

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Holidaymakers across the world are now faced with cancelled travel plans as the world goes into an unprecedented lockdown to try and combat the rapidly spreading coronavirus. Countless airlines have pulled flights, meanwhile, hotel and tour activities have been slashed.

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In most instances, if you took out a travel insurance policy before the World Health Organisation named the coronavirus a pandemic, your insurance provider will continue to assist with coverage.

However, many travel insurance providers have been unable to sell new policies or offer coverage for coronavirus cancellations for anyone who invested in a policy after March 11, 2020.

When it comes to flights, airlines tend to be responsible for providing a refund if they cancel a flight.

However, should a traveller decide not to fly over coronavirus concerns, their flight operator is not responsible for this refund.

Experts from online bank Monzo offer an explanation on their website: “If something you’ve booked has been cancelled by the merchant you bought it from because of coronavirus, clarify the refund policy with them directly.

“Whenever you buy something, the merchant you bought it from will have a refund policy.

“In most cases, the refund policy will say what the merchant will do if they have to cancel the booking or event and if you can get your money back.”

They continue: “If you had plans to travel to a country that the government advised not to, you’ll probably need to cancel your trip.

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“Speak to the merchants you’ve got bookings with to find out their refund policy is and see if you can get your money back.

“If they don’t refund you, talk to your travel insurance provider if you have one.

“An insurance provider will also have a policy that explains if you’re entitled to a refund.”

There are some extraordinary circumstances amid the COVID-19 outbreak, however, that may temporarily amend refund policies.

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This includes for package holidays.

Travel companies earning no revenue amid the travel ban could be sent out of business if they are forced to hand back payments for cancelled holidays.

In a bit to stop this, the European Commission updated its guidance on refunds for package holidays.

Customers are now being encouraged to accept vouchers or credit notes – as long as the holidaymaker can eventually reclaim their money.

How to get a refund without travel insurance

For those not due to embark on a package holiday, there are ways holidaymakers can seek to get their money back even without a travel insurance policy in place.

This involved a chargeback and can be instigated by the monetary merchant you paid with.

“If the merchant doesn’t refund you and you don’t have any insurance or protection, your bank can look into creating a chargeback for you,” explains Monzo’s website.

“A chargeback is where your bank disputes a transaction you made with the merchant, to try and get your money back.”

It is vital you tell the bank what you paid for, why the merchant won’t refund you and what the terms and conditions of the purchase were.

This method has also been cited by Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis in the past as a useful way to get your money back.

Though this is not legal protection, it is a process which works for Visa, MasterCard and American Express.

Mr Lewis explains: “It tends to be the quickest way of getting your money back – effectively you’re disputing the transaction as you’ve paid for something you’ve not received.”

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Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary has announced that the budget airline will be cutting all commercial flights until at least June. Following the decision to ground all flight from March 24, the Irish-based carrier announced the move would last for the duration of April and May.

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The news came following the decision by the British government to enforce a stringent lockdown across the UK, imploring the nation to stay at home unless absolutely vital.

Though may airlines continue to operate “rescue flights” to bring Britons home, Ryanair is just the latest in a series of British carriers to put a halt to their usual service.

In a statement, Mr O’Leary explained: “Over the past few days, the spread of the Covid-19 Virus has transformed the lives of people all over Europe and the World.

“Across Europe, Governments have imposed unprecedented restrictions on citizen movement, starting with flight bans which have closed Europe’s skies to all but a tiny number of repatriation/rescue flights.

“We apologise sincerely for these disruptions which were necessary, and unavoidable, to help EU Governments limit the spread of Covid-19 to protect our citizens.”

Though the airline will continue to operate essential flights “for the movement of vital medicines, personal protective equipment, and if necessary, emergency food supplies” as well as those dedicated to bringing people home, the carrier will no longer be jetting Britons off on holidays.

Mr O’Leary explained that there is a protocol in place to help protect passengers who are faced with cancellations.

He said: “Any passenger whose flight has been cancelled as a result of these Government shutdowns, will over the next week or two, receive an email outlining their options.

“At the same time as we are dealing with unprecedented numbers of flight bans, we have had to reduce office staff by 50 percent for social distancing reasons and we ask customers to be patient and bear with us; you will receive email communications in due course.

“Please do not call our phone lines as the reduced staffing will be unable to accommodate anything but the most urgent of cases, which over the coming days, will be rescue flights.”

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When can Britons fly again?

Little is known for sure about how long the coronavirus outbreak and subsequent lockdown measures will last.

Countries around the world have varying levels of national and border lockdowns in place.

In the UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson suggests that the initial stringent measures will last for three weeks, though this could be lengthened if evidence does not show it to be working.

Mr Johnson said the measures will be “under constant review” and will be considered for relaxation in three weeks if the evidence allows.

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Meanwhile, the FCO is urging Britons to avoid all but essential travel outside the UK for a period of 30 days.

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said: ““The FCO will always take into consideration the safety of British nationals so with immediate effect I’ve taken the decision to advise British Nationals against non-essential travel globally for a period of 30 days and of course subject to ongoing review.

“I should emphasise this decision is being taken based on the domestic measures being introduced into the UK alongside the border and a range of other restrictions which are being taken by countries right around the world.

“The speed and the range of these measures across other countries is unprecedented some of those decisions are being made without notice.”

The Ryanair CEO has assured Britons that they will fly again.

“At this time, no one knows how long this Covid shutdown will last,” said Mr O’Leary.

“The experience in China suggests a 3-month period for the spread of the virus to be contained and reduced. We do not expect to operate flights during the months of April and May at this time, but this will clearly depend upon Government advice, and we will in all cases comply with these instructions.

While the immediate future is uncertain, it is important to remember that, like all pandemics, this crisis will pass.

“Our Governments and health agencies are taking unprecedented action, but they require our support, so by working together we can all help to eliminate Covid-19 and allow our lives to return to normality. In Ryanair, Buzz, Lauda, and Malta Air, we will do everything we can to keep our aircraft, our crews, and our engineering teams operational so that when Europe defeats this Covid-19 pandemic, we are ready to return to flying, to allow Europe’s citizens to go back to work, to visit friends/family, and to rebuild Europe’s tourism industry, upon which so many millions of jobs and families depend. Rest assured that we and the 18,000 aviation professionals in the Ryanair Group of Airlines will do everything we can to support our Governments, our people, and our customers during these unprecedented times.”

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