Travel Updates

At Vodkatrain the safety of our clients is paramount. When world events occur we consult a number of sources and evaluate the situation before making any operational changes to current or upcoming itineraries. These include government advisories and the World Health Organisation appraisals, the expert and in depth knowledge of our local partners who are constantly monitoring conditions as well as assessments by our Honchos who provide an immediate response from our destinations. We always endeavour to provide an alternative that will not diminish the overall experience of your journey when itineraries have to change. In extreme situations we may choose to cancel departures.

We would encourage you to ensure that you have comprehensive insurance prior to travel and to do some research on the destinations that you are travelling to. Our Travel Advisors will happily provide you with more information as required.

The best way to receive up to date government advice on specific countries is to familiarise yourself with your nationality’s government travel advisory website:

Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au , 1300 139 281
New Zealand: www.safetravel.govt.nz
UK: www.fco.gov.uk/travel, 0845 850 2829
Canada: www.voyage.gc.ca/countries_pays/menu-eng.asp
USA: www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html

If you have any queries, please contact your travel agent or Vodkatrain.

21 June 2011

Ash cload from the Puyehue volcano in Chile

We are monitoring the effect of the ash cloud from the eruption of the Puyehue volcano in Chile. There have been some flight delays and cancellations to flights to and from ports in Australian and New Zealand. We recommend affected or potentially affected clients to contact their travel agent or Sundowners Overland at travel@sundownersoverland.com to advise them of their options and assist with re-bookings where necessary. We advise all clients to regularly check flight status regardless of destination and to contact their travel insurers for a clear understanding of eligibility for compensation.