I just got my Travel Safe Insurance policy, and the preexisting condition clause is only waived if you buy it when you make the deposit and if its your first reservation for that itinerary, i.e., you haven't changed your plans. I didn't buy it until I made the final payment at the 60 day mark. Just thought I'd mention it so people don't make the same mistake. <BR> <BR>Mike

Normally you have 7-14 days from the deposit on the first booking of the cruise to cover pre-existing conditions. It varies from insurance policy to insuance policy.

I am scheduled to sail on a HAL cruise to Alaska on 9/22/01 out of Vancouver. Due to the recent events in our country I am very aprehensive not only about flying, but also leaving the country. I am also not really in the right spirits for a vacation and I wrok in a television newsroom and I really need to stay close in the event of war. HAL cancelled today's sailing but they have no plans to cancel next Saturday's since air travel has resumed for the most part. They are refusing to issue a cruise credit for nect season or offer any sort of a refund. I did not purchase the insurance. Is there anything I can do? You would think with our state of affairs they would be more understanding. The cruise is expensive so the loss would be significant. <BR> <BR>Any advice would be great.

<BR>Dear Kelcey, <BR> <BR>I understand how you feel with the atrocities of the past week but you must realize the cruise lines have done all they could for the stranded passengers during this trying time. They have taken a tremendous loss and have done a fine job. <BR> <BR>They can not continue this forever. <BR> <BR>The terrorist want to bring down our economy and it is up to all of us to keep a stiff upper lip and try to continue with our lives as in the past. <BR> <BR>Paul

Mike- go to www.cruisediva.com/news_week_092001.htm <BR> <BR>It will give you refund policies of ALL cruise lines-- <BR> <BR>I would try to see if they might re-schedule your cruise for a later date..It doesn't hurt to ask but IF you didn't purchase trip cxl insur. the cruise lines really don't have to do anything....I ALWAYS take out trip cxl insur. whether it is a cruise or land vacation( ie.tour).

At this moment the harbor in Boston is closed due tot a bomb threat. Ships are sitting in the harbor. Was due to take friend on a dry run to pier, but don't think we can get close enough.

<BR>Back to Pre-existing Conditions: <BR> <BR>Most passengers buy insurance and think they are covered for everything imaginable. Best to have a travel agent who can explain every single clause in the policy. <BR> <BR>There was no reason why Mike did not know of the time limit that exists on most policies ( I said most). Some policies pre-existing condition waiver only pertains to those not traveling. Again, the policy must be studied and understood. <BR> <BR>It's a zoo out there boys and girls. <BR> <BR>Now it's time you sat down and took a look at your homeowner's policy and talk to your agent if there is something you do not understand. Do not wait until it is too late. <BR> <BR>Although our government orders all insurance policies to be written in concise consumer language (same with income tax forms ..... sure) and not legaleze, at times it is still difficult to understand. One must ask for help. <BR> <BR>Paul