An updated booking flexibility policy has been introduced by adventure specialist Exodus Travels alongside a ‘travel safety’ charter.
The enhancements as part of a ‘Book & Travel with Confidence’ message for the travel trade come as the operator confirmed that all refunds for trips cancelled during the Covid-19 pandemic had been processed.
The changes will enable customers to have their balance for the land portion of their trip refunded if they need to cancel up to 42 days before departure.
A 21-day no-fee flexibility guarantee enables clients to transfer to a future departure for free up to 21 days before departure.
Managing director Sam Seward said: “Like a very small handful of adventure travel operators, we have now processed all refund requests relating to cancellations since the start of the crisis and with these enhanced measures we hope to give our trade partners the extra confidence to book their customers with Exodus Travels.”
A five-stage approval process has been developed, which destinations will be required to pass before opening to Exodus travellers.
This is based on both Foreign Office advice and a separate validation by an independent travel risk management company.
A tour will run providing that FCO advice is positive, Covid infection rates are under control in the destination and entry requirements or local restrictions do not “significantly impair” the itinerary.
The firm will also have access to a list of approved emergency medical services and local partners will be required to meet its Covid-19 safety requirements.
The travel safety charter has been created in line with local government agencies, as well as the World Travel & Tourism Council’s ‘Safe Travel’ protocols for tour operators.
Seward said: “During these last few months, our expert guides and head office teams have been working hard behind the scenes to put together this travel safety charter in preparation for welcoming our guests back on our adventures safely and responsibly.
“In addition, we’re delighted to be able to offer the type of booking flexibility and financial security customers need and expect, should plans have to change.”