Insurance News and Advice

Lost In Translation?

2010-01-08T12:46:00.001-08:00

My co-workers are wondering why I am sitting alone in my office laughing hysterically, so I will leave them to think I have lost my mind as I share with you the reason for my amusement.

Please enjoy the following,

MANGLED TRANSLATIONS FROM ABROAD:

In a Paris hotel elevator:
Please leave your values at the front desk.

In a hotel in Athens:
Visitors are expected to complain at the office between the hours of 9 and 11 A.M. daily.

In a Yugoslavian hotel:
The flattening of underwear with pleasure is the job of the chambermaid.

In a Japanese hotel:
You are invited to take advantage of the chambermaid.

On the menu of a Swiss restaurant:
Our wines leave you nothing to hope for.

On the menu of a Polish hotel:
Salad a firm's own make; limpid red beet soup with cheesy dumplings in the form of a finger; roasted duck let loose; beef rashers beaten up in the country people's fashion.

In a Rhodes tailor shop:
Order your summers suit. Because is big rush we will execute customers in strict rotation.

A sign posted in Germany's Black Forest:
It is strictly forbidden on our black forest camping site that people of different sex, for instance, men and women, live together in one tent unless they are married with each other for that purpose

In a Zurich hotel:
Because of the impropriety of entertaining guests of the opposite sex in the bedroom, it is suggested that the lobby be used for this purpose.

In an advertisement by a Hong Kong dentist:
Teeth extracted by the latest Methodists.

In a Rome laundry:
Ladies, leave your clothes here and spend the afternoon having a good time.

Advertisement for donkey rides in Thailand:
Would you like to ride on your own ass?

In a Bangkok temple:
It is forbidden to enter a woman even a foreigner if dressed as a man.

In a Copenhagen airline ticket office:
We take your bags and send them in all directions.

In the office of a Roman doctor:
Specialist in women and other diseases.

From a brochure of a car rental firm in Tokyo:
When passenger of foot heave in sight, tootle the horn. Trumpet him melodiously at first, but if he still obstacles your passage then tootle him with vigor.

And to top it off

The Dairy Association's huge success with the campaign "Got Milk?" prompted them to expand advertising to Mexico. It was soon brought to their attention the Spanish translation read "Are you lactating?"

Coors put its slogan, "Turn it loose," into Spanish, where it was read as "Suffer from diarrhea".

Scandinavian vacuum manufacturer Electrolux used the following in an American campaign: "Nothing sucks like an Electrolux".

Clairol introduced the "Mist Stick" curling iron to Germany, only to find out that "mist" is slang for manure. Not too many people had use for the "manure stick".

When Gerber started selling baby food in Africa, they used the same packaging as in the US, with the smiling baby on the label. Later they learned that in Africa, companies routinely put pictures on the label of what's inside, since many people can't read.

Colgate introduced a toothpaste in France called Cue, the name of a notorious porno magazine.

An American T-shirt maker in Miami printed shirts for the Spanish market which promoted the Pope's visit. Instead of "I saw the Pope" (el Papa), the shirts read "I saw the potato" (la papa).

Pepsi's "Come alive with the Pepsi Generation" translated into "Pepsi brings your ancestors back from the grave", in Chinese.

The Coca-Cola name in China was first read as "Kekoukela", meaning "Bite the wax tadpole" or "female horse stuffed with wax", depending on the dialect. Coke then researched 40,000 characters to find a phonetic equivalent "kokou kole", translating into "happiness in the mouth".

Frank Perdue's chicken slogan, "it takes a strong man to make a tender chicken" was translated into Spanish as "it takes an aroused man to make a chicken affectionate".

When American Airlines wanted to advertise its new leather first class seats in the Mexican market, it translated its "Fly in leather" campaign literally, which meant "Fly naked" (vuela en cuero) in Spanish.

When Parker Pen marketed a ball-point pen in Mexico, its ads were supposed to have read, "it won't leak in your pocket and embarrass you". The company thought that the word "embarazar" (to impregnate) meant to embarrass, so the ad read: "It won't leak in your pocket and make you pregnant".

If you're traveling to Tokyo, are you prepared to be toodled with vigor?

What of the airline takes your bags and sends them in all directions?

What if you become impregnated by your pen while flying naked to Mexico?

Yeah, we've got a plan for that.

At Insurance Services of America, we specialize in International Travel Medical and Trip Insurance.

Give us a call for prompt, professional, personal service.

800-647-4589

You never know what might happen while the chambermaid is flattening your underwear.

The REAL Meaning of Christmas

2009-12-09T08:58:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas from your friends at

Insurance Services of America!

Gobble up these Thanksgiving Travel Tips:

2009-11-12T11:49:00.001-08:00

It’s hard to believe but we’re only a few weeks away from Thanksgiving. Travelers who are planning to fly somewhere and haven’t booked yet should be prepared for some painful fares and middle seats. For those who have booked and have confirmed reservations, here’s a trio of tips from Consumer Traveler, from the obvious, to perhaps the not-so-obvious.

1. Forget having a “normal” airport experience. Planes full of families and leisure travelers are just not the same as equally-full planes of business travelers. Occasional travelers are often less “entitled” than regular fliers, which is a good thing. But they don’t have the “rules” memorized, which is not.
Plenty of folks in security lines will be stopped for cell phones in pockets, water bottles in carry-ons, etc, etc. And, due to people cashing in miles and frequent fliers bringing their families, some of these people will be in the elite lines. (One line was held up recently by a young child who at first refused to take his shoes off.)

2. Full planes and iffy late November weather don’t increase the odds for a successful checked luggage experience. Especially as airlines try their best to keep flights on time, as they know people really want to make it home for the holidays. Getting baggage to destinations together with their owner is a goal, but a lower priority. In additional, leisure travelers tend to check more bags, so there’s simply more volume.
This doesn’t mean not to check your luggage, but if you have a special dress or outfit you REALLY want to wear for a holiday meal, or anything you must have within 24 hours of arrival, try extra hard to put it in your carry-on.

3. Bring a sense of humor. It’s not an easy travel holiday. Even people who are excited about visiting friends and relatives are usually at least a little stressed. And some are more than a little stressed. Plus, road warriors who are used to traveling and flying solo now are getting brought back to earth with family members. (The child who didn’t want to take his shoes off was with an elite-status frequent flier mother, who was incredibly embarrassed by her son’s actions.)

Keep these three Thanksgiving factors in mind while traveling and many maddening things that drive you crazy at the time will make great Thanksgiving dinner table stories later.

Whether you are driving, flying, or taking the train this Thanksgiving, don’t leave home without adequate travel insurance. Why risk your financial investment in the event of accident or illness, lost luggage, and missed connections? Call the pro’s at Insurance Services of America for a free instant quote, and see how affordable piece of mind can be.

And we’re not just talkin’ turkey!

Halloween Fun Facts

2009-10-30T09:29:00.001-07:00

Orange and black are Halloween colors because orange is associated with the Fall harvest and black is associated with darkness and death.

Jack o’ Lanterns originated in Ireland where people placed candles in hollowed-out turnips to keep away spirits and ghosts.

Tootsie Rolls were the first wrapped penny candy in America.

Halloween candy sales average about 2 billion dollars annually in the United States.

Chocolate candy bars top the list as the most popular candy for trick-or-treaters with Snickers #1.

Halloween is the 2nd most commercially successful holiday, with Christmas being the first.

Monster Trivia & Folklore

**************************

Signs of a werewolf are a unibrow, hairy palms, tattoos, and a long middle finger.

Vampires are mythical beings who defy death by sucking the blood of humans.

In about 1 in 4 autopsies, a major disease is discovered that was previously undetected.

Halloween Movie Details

**************************

'Halloween" was made in only 21 days in 1978 on a very limited budget.

The movie was shot in the Spring and used fake autumn leaves.

The mask used by Michael Meyers in the movie "Halloween" was actually a William Shatner mask painted white.

The character Laurie Strode, played by Jamie Lee Curtis was named after John Carpenter's first girlfriend.

While the setting for the story is in Illinois, the license plates on the vehicles have California plates.

Halloween is on October 31st, the last day of the Celtic calendar. It was originally a pagan holiday, honoring the dead. Halloween was referred to as All Hallows Eve and dates back to over 2000 years ago.

What is spookier than ghosts and goblins? Not having adequate health insurance!

Call the experts at Insurance Services of America for all your travel medical and short term health insurance needs!

Insurance Services of America

800-647-4589

GLEE Roadtrip Alert!!!

2009-10-28T10:26:00.000-07:00

I am not ashamed to admit it, I am a GLEEK!

Fanatics of the new Fox comedy GLEE are finally going to get the chance to not only buy the first volume of music from the show, but also see the cast live at mall appearances in New York, New Jersey and California

Here's how to get your Glee on:

Glee cast members, Lea Michele (Rachel), Cory Monteith (Finn), Dianna Agron (Quinn), Chris Colfer (Kurt), Kevin McHale (Artie), Amber Riley (Mercedes), Mark Salling (Puck), and Jenna Ushkowitz (Tina) are all scheduled to appear at each event. Sadly, they won't be singing, but they will be doing meet-and-greets and signing CDs purchased in-store.

Here are details for the upcoming Glee Mall Tour:

NEW YORK AREA: Monday, November 2nd @ 4:00 PM Roosevelt Field Mall / North Court Lower Level (below food court)Garden City, NY 516.248.8747

Beginning Monday, November 2nd, at 10 AM, the first 400 people to purchase Glee: The Music, Vol. 1, at the f.y.e. store listed above will receive a wristband which gets them a spot in line for the autograph signing. Cast members will only be signing copies of the Glee CD at each appearance. One item signed per person.

Tuesday, November 3rd @ 5:30 PM Borders. The Shops at Columbus Circle, Time Warner Center10 Columbus Circle, NYC212.823.9775

Starting Tuesday, November 3rd, at 9 AM, be one of the first 400 people to purchase Glee: The Music, Vol. 1, at Borders and you will receive a wristband which gets you into the autograph signing.

Wednesday, November 4th @ 6:00 PM Best Buy @ Garden State Plaza Paramus, NJ 201.556.1321

On Tuesday, November 3rd, at 10 AM, be one of the first 400 people to purchase Glee: The Music, Vol. 1, at Best Buy in Garden State Plaza, and you will get the wristband needed for the autograph signing.

LOS ANGELES: Saturday, November 7th @ 4:00 PM Barnes & Noble @ The Grove189 Grove Drive Los Angeles, CA323.525.0270

Doors at Barnes & Noble at The Grove will open on Tuesday, November 3rd, at 9 AM, and the first 400 people to purchase Glee: The Music, Vol. 1, will receive a wristband for the autograph signing.

Plan your road trips accordingly! And remember to check out the Round Trip plan for road trips at least 200 miles from your home. With the $0 trip cost option, you can get super low rates and be protected if you get trampled while trying to get closer to Finn! Y

Insurance services of America

800-647-4589

Who's the friendliest in the sky?

2009-10-15T13:58:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite travel websites just conducted an informal poll of its readers and asked which was their favorite airline. Below are the top 10:

10. USAirways
9. Virgin America
8. AirTran
7. Alaska
6. United
5. JetBlue
4. Delta
3. American
2. Continental
And the winner is:
1. Southwest

So what puts Southwest ahead of the pack? Is it their fares, customer service, or maybe the fact that they are the only airline on the list that does not charge a baggage fee?

Tell me, dear readers, what is your airline of choice, and what makes them so?

One random commenter will receive a set of shiny new ISA luggage tags!

BE PREPARED FOR ANYTHING WHEN YOU TRAVEL

2009-07-16T12:19:00.000-07:00

I just read and interesting article from the travel experts at Fodor’s. Last week, their art director found herself on the tarmac in Munich headed for Barcelona with absolutely no cash, no credit card, and no ATM card. All had been left in her camera case that was still hanging on the back of a stall in the ladies room near the departure lounge. Luckily, she arrived in Barcelona and was able to borrow money from friends while waiting for a new credit card to arrive.

But what if she had not had friends waiting for her in Barcelona? What if she's lost her passport as well? In a genuine emergency, when you have no cash or passport on hand, what would you do? It always helps to know where to turn in the event that your trip goes bad, especially when you're abroad and may not know anyone where you are traveling. Luckily, there are some simple things you can remember that can help you turn a travel disaster into something much less terrible. Take a tip from the experts with some simple steps toward safeguarding your travel plans:

1. Make copies of everything. Make color copies of your passport, credit cards and ATM card (both front and back), and your driver's license. If you lose these things, it's much easier to get them replaced if you have a good copy.

2. Know your bank's policies. Would your bank be able to mail you a replacement credit or ATM card immediately? Does it have branches or offices in the country where you'll be traveling? How about a local contact number? If not, how do you reach them?

3. Know the number and location of the nearest U.S. consulate. If you are traveling abroad, you should always have the telephone number and location of the nearest U.S. consulate, which you will have to visit in person to get a temporary replacement passport in the event that yours is lost or stolen. It's usually possible to get an emergency passport within 24 hours.

4. Get travel insurance. Insurance Services of America’s clients are provided with a 24 hour assistance help line. They can help you with an emergency cash transfer or can find the nearest consulate or an English-speaking doctor; even help you rebook flights if you miss a connection.

Some folks think they just don't need travel medical insurance. They figure they are healthy and won't need it. Unfortunately you never know what can go wrong when you travel, and when you're in a different country, small inconveniences can become tremendous problems.

When you are covered by a comprehensive travel medical plan from Insurance Services of America, in addition to being covered for medical emergencies, you'll have access to travel assistance 24 hours a day. We can help locate and return your lost checked baggage, help with cash transfers, make last minute changes to your itinerary, refer you to doctors, lawyers, aid in the replacement of lost prescriptions, and much more.

Don't get caught without adequate travel insurance!

Call the fine folks at Insurance Services of America for a great plan that won't break the bank.

Insurance Services of America

800.647.4589

We speak Jive

Buy Trip Insurance Separately From Your Trip Provider

2009-07-13T09:47:00.001-07:00

Check out this article I just read on Clark Howard's web page:

Buy Trip insurance separately from your trip provider
Trip insurance policies should always be purchased when you are taking a cruise, a tour or traveling on a trip that requires pre-payment of thousands of dollars.

Such policies are designed to protect consumers by giving them refunds in the event of illness to the traveler or an immediate family member. They also provide a refund in the case of company, tour operator or airline default.

Consumers should always purchase a policy independent of the cruise, tour or vacation planner. Never purchase the trip protection plan from the trip organizer. Those types of policies are designed to protect only the company and not the consumer!

At Insurance Services of America, we know that you should buy your travel insurance separately from your trip provider. Otherwise, if your trip provider goes belly up, your Trip insurance does too! The Round Trip plan from Insurance Services of America is specifically designed to protect your financial investment and cover you against default by your airline, cruise line, tour group etc. There is even an optional 'Cancel for Any Reason' benefit in case you can't make it on your trip. In addition to protecting your vacation plans, there is coverage for lost baggage and personal effects, and emergency medical expenses including repatriation.

So do what the experts suggest and give us a call. We'll help you get comprehensive coverage and still leave you with plenty of spending money for souvenirs!

800.647.4589

Going to the Dang Airport???

2009-06-29T14:08:00.000-07:00

Last week The Independent newspaper in London released its list of the weirdest airport names. Among my favorites:

Batman Airport, Turkey

Useless Loop Airport, Australia

Moron Airport, Spain

Eek Airport, USA

Pickle Lake Airport, Canada

Deadhorse Airport, USA

Dang Airport, Nepal

Mafia Airport, Tanzania

Asbestos Hill Airport, Canada

Deception Airport, Canada

Rifle Airport. USA

Danger Bay Airport, USA

Even if your travel plans do not include Danger Bay or Mafia airports, you still shouldn’t fly without adequate

Travel Medical Insurance!

Call your friends at Insurance Services of America to find an affordable plan to suite your needs:

800.647.4589

"Ancient Chinese Secret, huh?"

2009-06-25T11:08:00.001-07:00

The Department of State has issued a strong warning against travel to China, and has recommended that all travelers purchase Trip insurance.

Current quarantine measures in China include placing arriving passengers who exhibit fever or flu-like symptoms into seven-day quarantine. Although the proportion of arriving Americans being quarantined remains low, the random nature of the selection process increases the uncertainty surrounding travel to China. The selection process focuses on those sitting in close proximity to another traveler exhibiting fever or flu-like symptoms or on those displaying an elevated temperature if arriving from an area where outbreaks of 2009-H1N1 have occurred.

We have reports of passengers arriving from areas where outbreaks have occurred (including the U.S. and Mexico) being placed in precautionary quarantine simply because they registered slightly elevated temperatures.In some instances, children have been separated from their parents because either the parent or the child tested positive for 2009-H1N1 and was placed in quarantine for treatment. This situation presents the possibility of Chinese medical personnel administering medications to minors without first having consulted their parents.

The Department of State has received reports about unsuitable quarantine conditions, including the unavailability of suitable drinking water and food, unsanitary conditions, and the inability to communicate with others.Travelers to China are reminded that all foreign travelers, including U.S. citizens, are obliged to follow local procedures regarding quarantines and any other public health-related measures. The U.S. Embassy will be unable to influence the duration of stay in quarantine for affected travelers. The Chinese government will not compensate people for lost travel expenses.

Travelers to China are urged to consider purchasing Travel insurance to protect against losses in the event they are quarantined.

For more information on U.S. Government policy during a pandemic, and for travel safety information, please see the State Department’s “Pandemic/Avian Influenza” and “Remain in Country” fact sheets on http://www.travel.state.gov/. Further information about 2009-H1N1 Influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, can be found at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/, the U.S. Government pandemic influenza website at http://www.pandemicflu.gov/, and the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html.

Subscribe to our RSS feed to be updated on the latest travel warnings.

It doesn't matter if you are traveling to China or Chattanooga, you should never leave home without adequate Travel Insurance.

Call the experts at Insurance Services of America to find the right plan for you without costing a bunch of Renminbi....

800.647.4589

Save Money this Summer!

2009-06-05T12:00:00.001-07:00

Some travelers believe they only need trip insurance when flying or leaving the country. However in today's economy, more and more people are taking their vacations closer to home.

Even on a road trip, things can still go wrong. Uninsured travelers or travelers with limited coverage could end up with more than they bargained for if they become sick or injured while vacationing.

Insurance Services of America offers travel insurance for people who are hitting the road. By using our zero cost trip option, travelers can take advantage of such benefits as rental car coverage, identity theft protection, medical or dental expenses, loss of personal effects, and MUCH more, at a very affordable rate.
Heck, they'll even secure your tee time and dining reservations!

And since we're all about helping you save money, here is today's frugal travel tip:

Many national parks are going to waive their entrance fee when you visit them during certain weekends this summer.

The weekends that you’ll want to mark on your calendar are:
1. June 20-21, 2009 (Father’s Day weekend)
2. July 18-19, 2009
3. August 15-16, 2009

Just a few of the national parks that are included: Grand Canyon (Arizona), Bryce and Zion (Utah), Yosemite (California), Haleakala (Hawaii), Yellowstone (Montana/Wyoming), Glacier (Montana), Grand Teton (Wyoming), and Acadia (Maine).

For a complete list of the parks, go to the National parks website.

Whether your travel plans include going overseas, or staying close to home,

Insurance Services of America has a plan for you.

Give us a call at 800-647-4589.

Our experts will help you find the coverage you need at a price you can live with.

This Little Piggy Went to Mexico...

2009-04-28T14:54:00.001-07:00

Travel season is upon us. Churches are preparing for mission trips, Summer is just around the corner, it's the start of the honeymoon season and Mexico is one of the most popular destinations for newlyweds. Although the outbreak situation in Mexico calls for caution, not alarm, it has greatly impacted the travel industry and vacationers everywhere.

It is important to prepare instead of panic.

(Remember SARS, Mad cow, or bird flu?)

The CDC reports that each year, approximately 36,000 people die from Influenza, and not the Swine variety.

So what are the symptoms of Swine Flu?

· Fever (greater than 100°F or 37.8°C)
· Sore throat
· Cough
· Stuffy nose
· Chills
· Headache and body aches
· Fatigue

There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Still planning your trip? Remember to purchase your Trip insurance within 10 days of making your travel arrangements and you can take advantage of our Cancel for Any Reason benefit.

Already booked your trip? A Travel Medical plan from Insurance Services of America will cover you in the event of any illness, including emergency medical evacuation, if needed.

Don't let fear keep you from completing your travel plans. Know the facts, wash your hands, and buy Travel Medical insurance.

It's a dirty world...

2009-04-24T09:45:00.001-07:00

Did you know...Hygiene comes from the name Hygeia, the Greek goddess of health and cleanliness

For Foreign Nationals visiting the United States, our International Travel Medical Plans use the Hygeia Network.

For U.S. Citizens traveling outside the United States, there is NO network!

The human body is home to some 1,000 species of bacteria. There are more germs on your body than people in the United States.

Ewwww. What a yucky thought! I guess that is why so many people get sick when traveling overseas.
Another reason why you should ALWAYS invest in Travel Medical Insurance!

Monks of the Jain Dharma (a minority religion in India) are forbidden to bathe any part of their bodies besides the hands and feet, believing the act of bathing might jeopardize the lives of millions of microorganisms.

I guess it's a good thing they're monks.

Ancient Egyptians and Aztecs rubbed urine on their skin to treat cuts and burns. A key chemical in urine is known to kill fungi and bacteria.

A Travel Medical plan from Insurance Services of America will cover the necessary expenses to transport you to the nearest medical facility qualified to treat you

~ not with urine, we promise…

Excrement dumped out of windows into the streets in 18th-century London contaminated the city's water supply and forced locals to drink Gin instead.

Perhaps this is why they say “Don’t drink the water” !

TV kills! University of Arizona researchers determined that television remotes are the worst carriers of bacteria in hospital rooms, worse even than toilet handles. Remotes spread antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus, which contributes to the 90,000 annual deaths from infection acquired in hospitals.

And I don’t even want to THINK about the remote controls in hotel rooms!!!

It is now believed President James Garfield died not from the bullet fired by Charles Guiteau but because the medical team treated the president with manure-stained hands, causing a severe infection that killed him three months later.

And you thought Urine was gross!!!

Let the experts at Insurance Services of America protect your health and investment with a quality Travel Medical Plan.

It’s a dirty World out there, but don’t let the fear of illness or injury keep you from exploring it!

Useless But Interresting Travel Trivia:

2009-04-02T11:56:00.000-07:00

On average, Americans spend five times more of their time in their cars than they do on vacation.

Approximately 20% of Americans have a passport.

The city of Las Vegas has the most hotel rooms in the world.

One American in four has yet to ride in an airplane. As for the three out of four who have, most have flown several times.

For every person who prefers an aisle seat, there are three who prefer windows.

While the average cost of air travel is about $60 per hour, using an air-phone during that plane trip can cost as much as $160 per hour.

Statistically, traveling by air is the safest means of transportation.

Atlanta's Hartsfield Airport handles more than 73 million passengers a year, making it the busiest airport in the world.

Ten percent of frequent fliers say they never check their luggage when flying.

The tail section of an airplane gives the bumpiest ride.

Odds that you'll be killed by a plane falling from the sky: one in 25 million. Odds that it will happen today: 1 in 7 trillion.

A Houston-area travel agency, offers an all-nude flight to Cancun Mexico. Once the plane reaches cruising altitude, you are allowed to take off all your clothes and roam about the cabin.

44% of hotels allow pets in their rooms

78% of cats never travel with their owners

The airplane Buddy Holly died in was called the “American Pie”

American Airlines saved $40,000 in 1987 by eliminating one olive from each salad served in first class.

The world's first passenger train made its debut in England in 1825.

A Boeing 747's wingspan is longer than the Wright brother's first flight.

The largest plane in the world is the Russian An-225 Cossack. It has a length of 275 feet 7 inches, a wing span of 290 feet, and maximum takeoff weight of 1,322,770 pounds

The automatic pilot in the movie “Airplane” was named OTTO

TWA was the first airline to introduce regular in flight movies starting with By Love Possessed in the first class section during a scheduled internal flight from New York to Los Angeles on 19th July 1961.

Insurance Services of America has been featured in American Airlines magazine “American Way”

How I spent my Spring Break...

2009-03-12T09:26:00.001-07:00

Dear Mom and Dad,

Spring Break is a blast, wish you were here. The ocean is just beautiful, and the water is so clear you can almost see the jellyfish before they sting you. Boy those little suckers really hurt! I think I might remember where I left my wallet, too. I sure hope so, cause for the past few days I have been existing on a diet of Chicklets that I purchased from one of the roadside natives here. I tell ya, people can be very friendly to tourists. Just yesterday, some people told me to take a hike. I thought that was very nice of them to suggest recreational activities. Unfortunately, since the airline lost one of my bags on the way down here, I didn't have my hiking boots, and when that lizard bit my ankle, it hurt almost as bad as subsequently falling down that hill.

Thankfully, my friends were able to assemble a makeshift stretcher to help me get back to the main road, and boy were we ever relieved when that nice man in the truck came by to give us a ride to the clinic. At least, I think it was a clinic. I mean, there were cots there with a bunch of sick people laying on them, and I really think that if we had waited just a little longer, someone would have assisted us eventually. I'm really not sure. I was kind of beginning to pass out from the pain and none of the people dressed like nurses spoke English. My buddy had his translation dictionary with him, and although he tried to get help, it seems the clinic wouldn't treat me unless I paid them first. Unfortunately, they did not accept Chicklets.

Don't worry about me though, my foot is still black but I am beginning to get the feeling back in my toes which is certainly a good thing when you're sleeping outdoors. There are some crazy insects around here! I sure wish the hotel wouldn't have lost my reservation.

You know what mom and dad? I've been thinking about how you told me to get Trip Insurance from Insurance Services of America. I guess I didn't think I would need it, but it sure would have been nice to have someone who could have gotten me a new hotel room, or some emergency cash when I lost my wallet, or bought me some new boots, or paid the clinic so they would treat me and get me back home safely. Just like you would have done yourself if you were here. For under 2 bucks a day, a travel medical plan could have protected me and given you peace of mind, too. But don't worry about me, mom and dad! I think I might be coming home soon. I found a company that does medical evacuations, and although it is a bit costly, at least I'll be safe. And I promise, I will totally pay you back the Fifty Thousand Dollars just as soon as I can.

See you guys soon,

Your Son.

What are you Doing?

2009-03-05T09:05:00.001-08:00

I admit, I am addicted to Twitter.

Someone recently asked me what one does on Twitter, and all I could say was,
"I don't know, you just check in..."

Maybe the beauty of Twitter is it's simplicity. You log on, learn what someone is making for breakfast, get a tip on how to calm your baby's cough, and leave a tid bit of your own. In today's fast paced world, sometimes it is just nice to slow down and throw a thought out into the cosmos. I personally enjoy seeing what the celebrities are doing. Jimmy Kimmel Twitters while taping his show, and even takes questions from fellow Twitterers to ask his guests. Recently, a guest at an Academy Awards party was Twittering pictures from the shindig. While at the edge of my computer seat, I watched what major Hollywood A-listers were eating, wearing, and doing, and
it.
was.
Awesome.

Mostly, I enjoy following fellow travel enthusiasts like myself. I discover groups with similar interests, and always pick up some useful tips. Check us out on Twitter!

Just don't forget to continue reading my blog, too!

Weak Economy Leads to Mass Layoffs

2008-10-24T14:03:00.000-07:00

Companies all across the country are feeling the crunch of our economic crisis, with millions of people finding themselves without a job, and consequently, without health insurance . Even employees who do not lose their jobs, may be downsized to part time and will also lose their benefits.

It’s not only big investment firms and banks that are laying off people. As of March 2008 the following Wall Street Firms have cut the following amount of jobs:

Citigroup~ 6,200

Lehman Brothers~ 4,990

Bank of America~ 3,650

Morgan Stanley~ 2,940

Washington Mutual~ 2,600

Merrill Lynch~ 2,220

HSBC~ 1,650

Bear Stearns~ 1,550

WestLB~ 1,530

UBS~ 1,500

Goldman Sachs~ 1,500

National City~ 900

Credit Suisse~ 820

Royal Bank of Canada~ 500

Fortis~ 500

Wells Fargo~ 500

Wachovia~ 443

Deutsche Bank~ 370

JPMorgan Chase~ 100

TOTAL ~ 34,463

If you get your health insurance through your job, you probably get a certain amount of money deducted from your paycheck to be applied toward the coverage. However, the amount deducted is typically only a small percentage of the insurance premium, while your employer pays the rest to the insurance company each month. When you leave your job, your employer may be required by law to give you an opportunity to remain on the employer's plan; this is called COBRA continuation coverage, and it is a continuation of the exact same benefits you received as an employee. However, your employer is under no obligation to pay any part of COBRA. Let's say, for example, that you get $100 per month deducted from your paychecks for health coverage. However, the actual cost of your health coverage is $600 per month. Thus, your employer has been paying the insurance company $500 per month on your behalf. When you leave your job, you receive a notice stating that if you choose to elect COBRA, your premium will be $612 per month, at a time when you no longer have any income.

These are scary times, and any financial planner will tell you, the best way to safeguard your fiscal future is to maintain health insurance.

Thankfully, the folks at Insurance Services of America have a solution:

Short Term Health Insurance.

Our short term health plans are specifically designed to provide medical coverage with very low premiums to keep you covered through these trying times.

The Secure Short Term Health Plan is an affordable alternative to Cobra, and you can apply online. It also includes an association discount card that provides discounts on things like prescriptions, dental, and vision. Visit our website today for an instant quote and see for yourself how our coverage really is affordable .

We know we will all make it through these difficult times.

Let the experts at Insurance Services of America help you avoid being bitten by a COBRA.

Save Money This Holiday Travel Season

2008-10-15T12:52:00.000-07:00

With today’s tough economy your Holiday travel plans might be changing. Although you’ve probably found that ticket prices for Thanksgiving or Christmas travel are significantly higher than last year, it’s not too late to find a reasonable fare. Over the next few weeks, I will be providing tips on how to save a little cash during these times, without putting a damper on your holiday cheer.

1. Avoid flying on the busiest days:
Holiday ticket prices are 25 percent higher than they were in 2007, with the average price for a Wednesday-to-Sunday itinerary a whopping $460 round-trip.Merely delaying your return until Monday could save you $80 on average, and you’d save an additional $63 by waiting to fly home until Tuesday. For Christmas travel: Avoid departing on Saturday, Dec. 20, or returning on Sunday, Dec. 28, and you could save $25-$40 per ticket.

2. Drive to (or from) an alternate airport:
For example: There are 10 percent fewer seats this November on flights from Gainesville, Fla., compared with last November. And, not surprisingly, the fare on a sample peak trip to Phoenix for Thanksgiving weekend is a sky-high $572 round-trip. An alternate approach would be to drive to a nearby airport. The fare from Jacksonville to Phoenix is just $466, and from Orlando it’s only $351. Just be sure to factor in the cost of gas, tolls and parking so you’re not squandering all of your savings on the road.

3. Watch carefully for price drops:
Fares during the holidays tend to be more unpredictable than at other times of the year, with price reductions of $15 or more happening 50 percent more often. So it’s a good idea to watch the fares daily and buy your tickets during one of these decreases, when it’s possible to save $100 or more per person.
Since airlines typically release only a few seats at the lowest prices at a time, book quickly if you see that a fare drop is taking place. That will help ensure that you’re not shut out by other travelers who are also trying to snatch up that low fare before the price goes up again.

4. Don’t wait too long before booking:

The trick with booking holiday travel is to wait long enough that you can enjoy the treat of price drops — but not so long that seats at the lowest fares are sold out. Bottom line: If you haven’t bought your Thanksgiving ticket yet, now’s the time to start watching for price drops; book your trip as soon as you feel comfortable with the fare, even if it’s higher than last year.

5. Plan for the unexpected:
Getting sick or injured while away from home can be financially devastating. Travel Medical Insurance is a small price to pay when you consider the costs of a medical evacuation. Trip insurance can reimburse you if your bags are lost, or if your flight gets delayed or cancelled. Cancelled flights and congested Holiday travel could leave you stranded. Let the experts at Insurance Services of America help you safeguard your Holiday Travel plans at a price that won’t leave you saying “Bah Humbug.”

INSURANCE SERVICES OF AMERICA

800.647.4589

For 38 years, SERVICE is our middle name.

British Travel Company Collapses:

2008-09-12T11:26:00.001-07:00

September 12, 2008. British Travel Company Collapses

SOURCE:Air Security International

Spokesmen at XL Leisure Group Plc announced the company has gone into administration on 12 September 2008, stranding thousands of travelers around the world. British Civil Aviation Administration officials stated that approximately 89,000 travelers who used the XL airline and travel agency will need to make other travel arrangements as the company will be unable to continue operating. An announcement on the XL Website cited rising fuel costs and a slowing economy as reasons for the financial collapse. XL Airways officials announced that all scheduled flights have been canceled and the company's aircraft will be unable to operate. TUI Travel Plc, a rival tour company based in Europe, announced that the firm will try to assist stranded travelers with making alternate travel plans.

Insurance Services of America policyholders: if you had a flight booked with an XL Airline, be sure to call the 24 hour travel assistance number on your ID card. Representatives are standing by to provide you with the astonishing travel assistance services outlined in your policy, such as book you on a different flight, get you a hotel room, emergency cash, and more.

You just never know what might happen while you travel; that's why you shouldn't leave home without adequate coverage. Call the experts at Insurance Services of America when you plan your next trip and see how affordable peace of mind can be.

800.647.4589

Insurance Services of America:

SERVICE

is our middle name!

Trying to schedule a doctor's appointment when you're uninsured...

2008-07-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

In our trying economy, with gas prices on the rise and businesses going bankrupt, it's no wonder a startling number of people are forced to go without health insurance.

Most folks tell themselves that they don't need health insurance, because they think they can't afford it. The sad fact is, if you get sick or injured, you can't afford NOT to have it. The other day, I was scheduling an appointment with my doctor, and the first thing they asked was for my insurance info. I gave them the name of the insurance company, but told them I didn't have my policy number at the time.

They told me to call back when I had the number.

They wouldn't even schedule the appointment unless I had proof of insurance.

Thank Goodness for the Amigo Short Term Plan. The Amigo plan is great for people who are between jobs, recently graduated from college, waiting for the open enrollment period on their job's group plan, or simply cannot afford a permanent medical plan.

How's this for a deal: the Amigo Short Term Plan has a $50 Urgent Care benefit which is not subject to the deductible. That means you can save money by choosing a high deductible plan, but still only pay $50 to visit an Urgent Care facility.

The Amigo Short Term Plan is also available in Spanish, and no proof of citizenship is required to obtain coverage.

Obtaining this plan is quick, convenient, and affordable. You can apply online for the Amigo Short Term Plan, and print out your policy and ID cards INSTANTLY. Or, if you prefer to speak to an agent, give the friendly folks at Insurance Services of America a call at 800-647-4589

The Amigo Short Term Plan; Peace of mind you can afford!

Gift Ideas for the Graduate in Your Life:

2008-06-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

Do you know of someone who will soon be graduating from college?

Here's a great gift idea: SHORT TERM HEALTH INSURANCE

Check out these disturbing findings from a recent poll:

• Approximately 40 percent of parents mistakenly believe that adult children (ages 21 -24) living at home were covered under their health insurance plans.

• 20 percent of college parents have no idea when their health insurance will no longer cover their college-age children.

• 68 percent of the parents were not even aware of the availability of short-term health insurance.

Once your graduate has hung up their cap and gown and started that fabulous new career, chances are it will be a few months before they are eligible for their company's group insurance plan.

So what can we do to protect our kids as they transition into adulthood?

Buy them a Short Term Health Plan!

At Insurance Services of America, we have a variety of Short Term Health Plans to fit any graduate's needs and budget.

Click here to get a quote or apply online. You won't believe how affordable peace of mind can be, and you don't even have to wrap it!

Insurance Services of America: 800-647-4589

Your Airline is Going to Change This Summer...

2008-06-06T11:53:00.000-07:00

This busy summer travel season, with all the airline mergers and alliances, overpaid executives and frustrated employees, you need to prepare yourself, because air travel is changing right before your eyes. Carriers are desperate to shrink their operations and bankruptcy fears are resurfacing.Here are some of the changes to the airline industry that you the passenger should be prepared for this summer:
You could experience a whole host of new delays. Airlines trying to adhere to self-imposed passenger rights, fuel prices, and cutbacks are bound to foul up that on time arrival that you counted on. What if you miss your connection? Will you have to shell out even more money for a new flight?
With airline executives making record salaries and front-line employees’ paychecks being slashed, management has informed their workers that fuel prices have hastened the need for cost-cutting measures yet again. You will get very few sympathetic employees doing more than their absolute bare minimum. What’s more, an industry that used to see employees start careers at a young age and stay until retirement is seeing senior executives make statements such as, “We’re not looking for people to make this a career any longer, this is just a job.”
Don’t expect amenities such as a pillow or a blanket. From additional check-in bags, to aisle seating, nothing is off-limits when it comes to chargeable items. With fuel at historic levels the airlines are pulling no punches when conserving oil. This could affect you in several different ways such as no running water for washing your hands before take-off, longer wait times at the gate, and possible flight cancellations for lack of connecting passengers.
Now you might be rethinking that trip altogether, but here is a way to protect your investment and not miss out on your vacation… Trip insurance.
Check out our trip protector plan and how it works:

For a very small percentage of your trip cost, trip protector will safeguard your travel plans in case something goes wrong.If your trip insurance is in effect for at least 14 days prior to departure, you will be covered in the event of airline default or bankruptcy. Good to have in a time when airlines are going belly up left and right and without any warning. Additionally, if you purchase trip insurance within 24 hours of making your final trip payment, pre-existing conditions are covered too.Other coverage includes emergency medical and dental expenses, lost luggage, emergency cash, missed connection, trip cancellation and trip interruption, just to name a few.At Insurance Services of America, we have a variety of plans to fit your needs and budget. Call one of our agents today at 800-647-4589, or click here for an instant quote or to apply online.

These are uncertain times, and a small investment in trip insurance can save you a fortune in the long run.

Another Airline Folds. Why you need Trip Insurance now more than ever:

2008-04-09T10:44:00.000-07:00

First it was Aloha Airlines, then ATA, then Skybus. American Airlines Cancelled 500 flights yesterday for maintenance. In the course of five days, tens of thousands of passengers are left stranded, unable to get home. The others have just discovered their vacations are never going to happen.

On the Skybus Web site yesterday was a brief announcement saying the airline had ceased operations because of rising jet-fuel costs and a slowing economic environment. The note said people with reservations should contact their credit-card companies for refunds. Passengers who paid cash are just plain out of luck. One scuttled Skybus passenger said he had been quoted $2,000 for a last-minute ticket home to Ohio.

This is when you can be glad you had the foresight to purchase trip insurance.

However, as with all policies, it is important to read the fine print. Skybus insurance policies covered things such as the illness of a traveler, inclement weather, and in policies sold after March 5, airline-caused delays and cancellations. But Skybus did not include “default" — going out of business — as one of the circumstances covered by the insurance.This is why it is also important to make sure you purchase your trip insurance from a reputable insurance company focused on getting you the most comprehensive coverage available. The kind of customer service and coverage that you will not find from an airline, cruise line, or travel agent.

At Insurance Services of America, we have trip insurance and travel medical insurance that will cover you weather your destination is Istanbul or Idaho, and everything in between. If your luggage gets lost, or you miss your connection, or if your trip gets cancelled for whatever reason, including airline default or bankruptcy, we've got you covered.

Call one of our friendly knowledgeable agents today at 800-647-4589 to find out more about this very affordable coverage. Wherever you go, we'll get you home.

A Great Plan Just Got Even Better!

2008-02-07T10:21:00.000-08:00

Insurance Services of America is pleased to announce some exciting new changes to our

Horizons Short Term Health Plan.

You will still get the same great features of the original Horizons Temporary Health Plan such as five deductible options from $750 to $10,000, a Million dollar lifetime benefit maximum, NO doctor office co-pay, a discount prescription card, and more!
Plus the plan now comes with a NO DEDUCTIBLE accident benefit, the rates have been lowered, and it's now administered by an A+ rated carrier, American Alternative Insurance Corporation.

If you find yourself between jobs, recently divorced or out of college, awaiting Medicare eligibility or in need of temporary coverage for whatever reason, let the professionals at Insurance Services of America quote a rate for you.

Call Mark or Adam at 800-647-4589, or click here to apply online.

You'll be surprised how affordable peace of mind can be!

Talk about EZ Issue!

2007-11-06T15:09:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been declined for health insurance?

Our Horizons short term plan does NOT ask a decline question.
In fact, it will even issue to those with mental and nervous disorders, or drug and alchohol abuse.

PLUS.....

$1,000,000.00 Per Person Maximum
Optional $300.00 outpatient accident benefit
Comes with a NO deductible prescription Drug Discount Card
Rates just reduced 20%!!

You can get a quote, apply online, or download an application with just a click of your mouse,

Or give us a call at 1-800-647-4589 if you have any questions or if we may quote a rate for you.

For over 37 years, Insurance Services of America is here to help!