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INSURANCE |
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Most people will find it essential to take out a good travel
insurance policy, particularly one with comprehensive medical coverage,
due to the high cost of hospital treatment in Japan. A typical travel
insurance policy should also provide cover for the loss of baggage,
tickets and - up to a certain limit - cash or cheques, as well as
cancellation or curtailment of your journey. Most policies exclude so-called
dangerous sports unless an extra premium is paid: in Japan this can mean
scuba-diving, whitewater rafting and bungee jumping, though probably not
skiing and mountaineering. Read the small print and benefits tables of
prospective policies carefully, as coverage can vary wildly for roughly
similar premiums.
With many policies you can exclude coverage you don't need, but for
Japan you should definitely take medical coverage that includes both
hospital treatment and medical evacuation; be sure to ask for the 24-hour
medical emergency number. Keep all medical bills and, if possible,
contact the insurance company before making any major outlay. Very few
insurers will arrange on-the-spot payments in the event of a major
expense - you'll usually be reimbursed only after going home.
When securing baggage cover , make sure that the per-article limit -
typically under £500 equivalent - will cover your most valuable
possession. If you have anything stolen, get a copy of the police report
; otherwise you won't be able to claim. Always make a note of the policy
details and leave them with someone at home in case you lose the
original.
Before buying a policy, check that you're not already covered. Your home
insurance policy may cover your possessions against loss or theft even
when overseas, or you can extend cover through your household contents
insurer. Many bank and charge accounts include some form of travel
cover, and insurance is also sometimes included if you pay for your trip
with a credit card (though it usually only provides medical or accident
cover).
In North America , Canadian provincial health plans usually provide some
overseas medical coverage, although they are unlikely to pick up the
full tab in the event of a mishap. Holders of official
student/teacher/youth cards are entitled to meagre accident coverage and
hospital in-patient benefits. Students will often find that their
student health coverage extends during the vacations and for one term
beyond the date of last enrolment.
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