IATI Insurances: A Journey through our Products

7 minutos de lectura

A lone figure stands on a winding sand dune in a vast desert landscape.

Imagine the year 1885, when most journeys happened on the high seas, and global travel insurance was just getting started. That’s the time when IATI set sail on its adventure. Fast-forward more than 130 years, and we’re still going strong, now in the hands of the fourth generation of a pioneering family. Keep reading and discover our IATI insurances: a journey through our products.

IATI’s lasting success boils down to a straightforward but powerful belief: a rock-solid dedication to quality and exceptional service, always with our clients front and centre.

At IATI, we’re more than just an insurance company; we like to think of ourselves as a company with a heart and a soul. We’re fuelled by a dynamic team of individuals who believe in blending tradition with innovation. Our journey through time mirrors the evolution of communication, from snail mail to the digital age of websites, social media, chat, and our very own app.

As we gear up to face the future, our focus remains firmly on innovation, as we strive to reach more customers every day while maintaining our commitment to quality and personal service. So, join us on this journey as we delve into the world of IATI and explore the exciting range of products and services that define our legacy of trust and adaptability.

Woman standing in dunes in Arabia

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Many travellers grapple with this question, often viewing travel insurance as an unexpected expense that wasn’t part of their planned budget. What if we told you that opting for an IATI insurance policy represents only a small fraction of your overall travel expenses? That’s right!

By choosing an IATI travel insurance policy, you can focus 100% on your journey and make the most of every adventure without worrying about anything other than having fun. Whether it’s a minor mishap like stumbling down the steps of a historic monument, encountering issues while snorkelling among exotic fish (especially on adventure-focused trips) or even facing common medical needs you’d typically address back in your own country, such as digestive discomfort, headaches, the flu, or back pain – without proper medical coverage, these seemingly minor incidents can result in bills amounting to thousands of euros. This is especially true in places with basic healthcare facilities like India or countries known for their high medical costs like the USA.

Why Choose IATI for Your Travel Insurance

Comprehensive Medical Assistance

We’ve already emphasized the importance of travel insurance when it comes to medical assistance abroad, where costs can be sky-high or the quality of care questionable. At IATI, we go the extra mile, and all our policies include medical coverage abroad. The coverage amount varies from policy to policy.

Medical costs can skyrocket in certain countries, and even a simple visit to a quality hospital for a check-up involving basic tests like an analysis or an X-ray can easily exceed 500 euros. Another common scenario is that some countries lack the necessary facilities to address your medical needs. When you have travel insurance, you ensure that whatever issues arise, you’ll always be treated by the best specialists without having to pay out of your pocket.

Best Price/Quality Guarantee

Our excellent price-to-quality ratio will convince you that IATI offers the best travel insurance, no matter your destination. Purchasing travel insurance is a small expense within your travel budget.

If you ever need assistance, your travel insurance will translate into substantial savings, as you won’t have to foot the bills, which could amount to thousands of euros. Travelling safely doesn’t have to break your budget.

Assistance in Your Language

When you require assistance, whether it’s medical or any other form of help, the last thing you want is to explain your problem over the phone in a language different from yours. Can you imagine having to explain in a foreign language that you require urgent help in the middle of a complicated situation? That could waste precious time and be vital in certain cases.

That’s why with your IATI travel insurance, you’ll always be attended to in your language. And if required, we’ll provide an interpreter to assist with translations.

You can reach out to us 24/7 for free. If you contact us by phone from abroad and send us the call invoice, we’ll reimburse you, so you won’t have to pay the international call charges.

boats in Pragser Wildsee, Italy

Adventure Sports Coverage

Most of our policies provide coverage for adventure sports.

Coverage for adventure sports is essential in your travel insurance, especially if your trip is packed with adventurous activities.

Whether you want to explore the depths of the sea, wander through lush nature, engage in adventure sports, or more, choose a travel insurance policy that includes adventure sports coverage. IATI Backpacker coverage includes activities like snorkelling, diving up to 40 meters, kayaking, zip-lining, and hiking.

No Deductibles, You Won’t Pay Anything Out of Pocket

Many insurance companies hide in the fine print that their policies have deductibles. This means that, for example, with a deductible of 100 euros, every time you need any kind of medical assistance, you’ll have to pay the first 100 euros, even after already paying for the policy.

At IATI, we don’t work with deductibles, and we always assist you from the first cent of your medical assistance, so you won’t have to worry about money.

Loss of Luggage and Theft Included

On a trip, many things can happen besides health issues. That’s why IATI travel insurance policies are designed to cover various situations, not just health-related ones. You’ll have coverage for luggage problems or theft, including theft with violence, in all our policies.

The coverage for loss of luggage depends on the policy you choose, so please check the specific coverage on the insurance page you intend to purchase.

Cancellation Option – Cancel Your Trip

Being protected not only during but also before your trip is another important aspect of having travel insurance. This is possible thanks to our cancellation coverage designed to prevent you from losing money on flights, accommodations, and activities.

island with trees in Zakynthos, Griekenland

Best Travel Insurance for residents of the EU

If your country of residence is within the EU this section is for you:

IATI Classic

IATI Classic is not only our cheapest travel insurance. This policy also features a broad range of coverage with moderate premiums, which allows you to travel with peace of mind anywhere in the world. The value for money of our insurance is indisputable: €500,000 for medical assistance; repatriation; basic adventure sports and many other types of cover that you can find in the drop-down menu below on this page.

IATI Backpacker

This policy is specially designed for backpackers who are setting off to see the world without knowing exactly which countries they will visit how long the trip is and who may take some risks. It combines high medical coverage of €500,000 with our classic cover and other specific upgrades such as adventure sport premium, search and rescue, and computer equipment in your luggage.

IATI Total Comfort

IATI Total Comfort is our best travel insurance. It offers the highest value in medical assistance. This policy covers a high amount of medical expenses, which makes it the best insurance for countries with extremely high healthcare costs, such as the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and others.

IATI Multitrip

IATI’s annual travel insurance is specially designed for those with itchy feet, who don’t stop travelling throughout the year, whether for leisure or work. IATI Multitrip covers all your trips of up to 90 days during 365 days.

hot air balloons

Best Travel Insurance for residents outside the EU

If your country of residence is outside the EU this section is for you:

IATI Basic

This policy offers moderate medical expenses of €50,000 for people who want to travel with the peace of mind of having minimum coverage for medical assistance and other basic coverage.

IATI Standard

Our IATI Standard travel policy provides medium-level coverage of €300,000 of medical expenses, which is suitable for most holiday packages, especially short and medium journeys, in addition to our classic complementary coverage such as repatriation, theft and damage to luggage, advance money, etc.

IATI Backpacker

This policy is specially designed for backpackers who are setting off to see the world without knowing exactly which countries they will visit how long the trip is and who may take some risk. It combines high medical coverage of €500,000 with our classic cover and other specific upgrades such as adventure sport premium, search and rescue, and computer equipment in your luggage.

IATI Cancellation Premium

This travel cancellation insurance is specifically designed to cover travel cancellation expenses, up to €6.000, which may be incurred as a result of not being able to travel for any of the reasons defined in the policy. The reasons for which you are entitled to make use of this cancellation cover are defined in the general conditions of the policy.

Still, have doubts that travelling with IATI is the right choice? We’re sure you don’t. If you already have a trip planned, don’t wait any longer – book today the best companion for your next journey.

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Travel Insurance for the Maldives

10 minutos de lectura

What is the best travel insurance for the Maldives? The Maldives is the dream destination of thousands of travellers who seek to relax on white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. To enjoy the comfort of their luxurious resorts, or, for example, enjoy the incredible biodiversity of their underwater environments. If you have already started organizing this adventure, you must have begun to look at flight options to the country, accommodations, and travel insurance for the Maldives that will protect your health and wallet, so that nothing ruins this unique experience that you are about to embark on. In this guide, we will focus on the last point and give you all the necessary information so that you can choose the best travel insurance for the Maldives. We will discuss the coverage you need in the country, its price, and how easy it is to get this insurance. Are you ready to start this journey to paradise? Why get travel insurance for the Maldives? The Maldives is a clear example of a country where having travel insurance is essential, as it is one of the countries where a doctor visit is costly, which makes it essential to have adequate travel insurance. As you can imagine, in a country with over 1,000 islands, it is not always easy to find a medical center, let alone one of good quality. Sometimes, depending on the urgency, it may even be necessary to be transported to another nearby country where you can be treated with the best guarantees. Therefore, it is essential to have the best travel insurance for the Maldives. The Importance of Travel Insurance This spectacular archipelago awaits you with many spectacular activities. A simple stumble while walking the streets of the capital, Malé, can end in a minor ankle sprain; indigestion from trying the typical cuisine; a cut from coral while snorkelling or diving in its incredible underwater world, or simply any problem that would be less serious in our own country (an infection, back problems, routine medical care…) without travel insurance for the Maldives could result in a high bill and a visit to a medical center that is likely below the quality standards we are used to. But your international medical insurance for the Maldives must go far beyond health-related issues and be by your side in case of any incident. IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star are the best policies for this trip. If your country of residence is within the European Union your best ally for this trip is IATI Total Comfort. If your country of residence is outside the European Union we recommend IATI Star.They take into consideration many more aspects and protect you in cases that may occur on a trip like this, such as problems with your luggage or theft. You will travel with serenity and if something happens, you can continue your journey. What is the best travel insurance for the Maldives? In the next section of this guide to getting your travel insurance for the Maldives, we will detail the characteristics that your policy should have. All of these, and many more, are included in the IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star travel insurances for the Maldives. So, if you are already aware of the importance of having the best policy for this trip, don’t wait any longer and get it now. What features should the best travel insurance for the Maldives have? Your travel insurance for the Maldives must have extensive financial coverage to ensure your safety. In addition, it should come with specific coverage for a trip to this destination. Each trip is different and just as you would need specific coverage to travel to a European city, for a trip to the Maldives, your policy should have the following characteristics, all included in your IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star policies: Free assistance in your language 24 hours a day The official language of the country is Dhivehi, but most workers in tourist accommodations and activities you will engage in speak fluent English. Have you ever imagined needing some kind of assistance and not being able to request it in your language? It would be a big waste of time and in certain situations, it can be extremely necessary for someone to speak the same language as us. That’s why with your travel insurance for the Maldives, we will always assist you in your language. In addition, we will be available to you 24 hours a day and 7 days a week, and you can contact us for free. If you do it by phone from abroad, you only need to send us the receipt for your international call, and we will reimburse you as soon as possible. High Medical Coverage Due to the archipelago’s topography and deficiencies in terms of medical centers on most islands, in severe cases, you may even have to be taken to another country. Therefore, having the best travel insurance for the Maldives is the best guarantee, both for its high coverage and the possibility of medical transfer if necessary. That’s why we’ve provided the IATI Total Comfort travel insurance for the Maldives with up to €10,000,000 to cover any medical situation you may face and IATI Star with up to €1.000.000 to cover any health situation. Additionally, you will always receive this attention in the best medical centers and hospitals in the country. Adventure sports in the Maldives A trip to a “beach” destination like this is synonymous with water sports and adventure. As you may be surprised, most international medical insurance does not cover this type of activity. The IATI Backpacker travel insurance for the Maldives, thanks to its Adventure Sports coverage, will protect you when you are enjoying popular activities in this destination. Such as diving up to 40 meters, surfing, windsurfing, beach games, paddle boarding, kayaking/canoeing, jet skiing, zip-lining… and even snorkelling! That’s right, activities that at first glance may seem so simple and that you may think are included in any travel policy, would not be included without the Adventure Sports coverage in your travel insurance to the Maldives. No deductibles, you don’t pay anything out of your pocket Many insurers offer prices that hide in the small print that they work with deductibles. If there is a deductible of 100 euros and you need some medical assistance, you will have to pay the first 100 euros (even though you have already paid the policy), and the insurer will cover the rest of the bill if it is higher than 100€. At IATI, we do not work with deductibles, and we cover every penny of your medical assistance. No need to advance money for medical assistance On the other hand, there are private health insurances that, when you travel abroad and need medical assistance, in addition to covering only a part, require you to make the payment and only weeks later reimburse you. This could mean that you must pay thousands of euros in the middle of your trip to the Maldives for an emergency and only get it back weeks later. With your IATI travel insurance, you won’t have to worry about that, we’ll take care of everything. The process to use your travel insurance for the Maldives is simple: when you need it, just contact us, and explain what type of assistance you need. We will quickly refer you to a quality medical center nearby, where they can help you. Once you get there, they will be waiting for you and, after your visit, we will take care of the costs of the consultation and any possible exams and medications prescribed by the professional. Similarly, if due to an emergency, you cannot contact us before visiting the medical center, we will also be there to support you. Just send us the bills and medical reports and we will reimburse the costs as quickly as possible. Lost luggage and theft included The best travel insurance for the Maldives should go beyond high medical coverage. You and your luggage are going to the Maldives, and that’s why we’ll also take care of protecting your belongings. Thanks to your IATI Total Comfort insurance, you will have up to 1,500 euros of coverage for cases such as robbery with violence or problems with your luggage. With IATI Star you will also be protected in such cases and you will have up to 2,500 euros of coverage. Cancellation option – cancelling your trip to the Maldives On a trip like this, there is a considerable economic investment. Buying tickets to the country, reserving hotels and transportation, booking activities… So, it is possible that, like many other travellers, you may wonder: “What if I couldn’t make this trip for a serious reason? Will I lose all the Money invested?” At IATI, we have over 135 years of experience, we are innovation leaders and have adapted all our products to the needs of our travellers. To address this concern, we introduced the option of Trip Cancellation Supplement. Thanks to this coverage, if you cannot take your trip due to one of the many causes considered in the conditions, we will reimburse you up to 2,000 euros to recover travel expenses that you cannot receive from official suppliers. Therefore, if you wish, you can use this money to visit this paradisiacal destination when you can. When you purchase your medical insurance to travel to the Maldives, you can easily add the Cancellation Supplement with a single click. Travel Insurance Coverage for the Maldives Now that you know the coverage your travel insurance for the Maldives should have, you may be interested in learning more about the features offered by the most popular policies among travellers heading to this destination. On the IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star pages, you can find detailed information about our policy and its benefits. In the following table, as a summary, we show you some of the coverages if you are travelling from the EU: If you are travelling from outside the EU, here is the summary of the features of the best travel insurance: How much does travel insurance for the Maldives cost? The cost of your travel insurance for the Maldives, is what will convince you of the great quality/price ratio. As you can see, the price of a two-week trip is lower than the price of one night in a medium hotel, which means that your international insurance will be a minimal cost in your travel budget. In addition, this is an expense that will turn into a huge saving in case you need any type of assistance: How to hire the best travel insurance for the Maldives Thanks to the intuitive menu, you will quickly see how easy it is to get travel insurance for the Maldives: Simply enter the following information: • Your place of departure for the trip; • Travel destination: Maldives; • Start and end dates of the trip; • Number of travellers; • Type of insurance: travel insurance. After filling in this menu and clicking on “Get a quote”, select your IATI Total Comfort or IATI Star insurance and click “Contract”. This is where, with just one more click, you can add the Cancellation Supplement, as we explained earlier, you can recover up to 2,000 euros in case you have to cancel your trip for any of the reasons considered. Just enter your personal information, make the payment and in your email, you will receive the Maldives travel insurance details you just hired, with all the information to contact us if you need assistance. And that’s it! In just 3 minutes, you have already ensured the tranquillity of your trip with the best coverage and the best price! Useful information for travelling safely to the Maldives Best time to travel to the Maldives In terms of climate, the best time to travel to the Maldives is between january and april, thanks to its good temperatures and low presence of rain. Between May and August, there is intense rainfall, although it is still possible to enjoy a safe trip to the Maldives. The average annual temperature is around 28-29 degrees, so you have no excuse not to make this trip at any time! Security in the Maldives The Maldives is a very safe country for travellers within their tourist areas. Health in the Maldives As it is an archipelago with more than a thousand islands, you may not always have quality health posts nearby. In addition, medical care in the country is very expensive for tourists. That’s why IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star, the best travel insurances for the Maldives, is essential to visit this paradise. With its coverage in medical assistance, theft, adventure sports, or lost luggage, it ensures that you are protected throughout your trip. Get your travel insurance now!

Travel Insurance for Cuba

10 minutos de lectura

What is the best travel insurance for Cuba? If you have already started planning your trip to this incredible Caribbean Island, you are probably asking yourself this question. As you may already know, international health insurance is the third pillar on which a trip is built along with your accommodation and flight reservations. In this specific case, it happens that travel insurance for Cuba is mandatory for travelling, as established by the country’s authorities. Cuba awaits you with history and culture that can still be felt daily in cities like Santiago or Havana. White sand beaches where you can lay in the sun, places where you can dive and discover the underwater world, or areas like Viñales where you can’t miss the trails. This guide will provide information on the best travel insurance for Cuba, including its coverage, cost, and how to obtain it. Once you have secured your travel insurance, you will be one step closer to realizing your dream of visiting this amazing destination. So pack your bags and get ready to explore Cuba in just a few minutes. Why should you get travel insurance for Cuba? Receiving healthcare abroad is always associated with very expensive bills which, in some cases, can ruin the entire trip. In Cuba, while its citizens have access to free healthcare, tourists are required to use a separate medical circuit, which requires having medical insurance that meets the country’s standards. Cuba is generally a safe country for tourists, but that doesn’t mean you won’t require medical assistance at any time. Even a minor stumble while walking through the cobblestone streets of Old Havana, issues while snorkelling in Cayo Jutías, a bump while travelling on a truck across the country, or any other mishap that can happen anywhere (cuts, illnesses, muscle or joint pain, infections… or even surgery!) can result in a visit to the emergency room and a hefty bill of thousands of euros if you don’t have adequate travel insurance for Cuba. Travel Insurance for Cuba When it comes to travel insurance for Cuba, it’s essential to protect not only your health but also other factors that can impact your trip. That’s why we recommend IATI Total Comfort if your country of residence is within the European Union. This is the best international insurance option for Cuba, it provides coverage for a wide range of scenarios that may arise during your visit to this country. For example, you will be protected if you have problems with your luggage (lost or stolen), as well as if you are assaulted with violence or intimidation. Another example? You will also be covered in cases of delayed departure of transportation, delayed delivery of your luggage, adventure sports, or, if you wish, trip cancellation for serious reasons. If you are travelling form outside the EU, we recommend IATI Star. It has one of the highest medical expenses coverages on the market, €1,000,000 extendable up to €4,800,000 and the largest limits in its wide range of complementary coverages. This policy is specially designed for travel to countries with high medical costs, such as the US. We will discuss these and other features in the next section dedicated to the coverage of IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star, the best travel insurances for Cuba. What is the best travel insurance for Cuba? In the following section, we will discuss in detail the coverage that makes IATI Star and IATI Total Comfort the best travel insurances for Cuba. Designed so that you can make the most of this destination and enjoy everything it has to offer, without worrying about anything else other than living that unique experience you deserve. As you already know, travel insurance for Cuba is mandatory. If you’re ready to purchase your insurance and continue planning your adventure, don’t hesitate any longer and click here (EU) and here (outside EU) to easily contract your insurance now. What features should the best travel insurance for Cuba have Similar to how international insurance for a city like New York requires specific coverage, travel insurance for Cuba also needs to be tailored to meet all of your needs and ensure that nothing is left out. In Cuba, you will go on strolls, taste new flavours, use local transportation, and, among many other plans, enjoy nature and the Caribbean seabed. For this reason, your insurance should consider the following coverage, all included in your IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star: High medical assistance coverage As we mentioned above, Cuba has a health system dedicated to tourists whose prices are very high. In addition to this high cost, you may not find quality centers prepared for all types of incidents throughout the country. For this reason, it is necessary to have travel insurance for Cuba with extensive medical assistance coverage and to ensure that you get transferred to a location in the country where you can receive the care you need. Your IATI Total Comfort medical insurance will cover you for up to €10,000,000, more than enough for any healthcare you may need, and will ensure that you can be treated at a good quality center that can help you the best. Your IATI Star, besides having one of the highest medical expenses coverages on the market (€1,000,000 extendable up to €4,800,000) it also includes the option to cover adventure sports and cruise ships, beyond many other features. Free 24-hour care You’ll be travelling around the clock, so we won’t rest for a minute either. You can count on us 24/7 for any assistance you may need, whether it’s related to a health issue, a problem with your luggage, or a missed transportation that could impact your trip. And you don’t have to worry about the cost of the call if you contact us from abroad, we will take care of it too. Just send us proof of the cost of the call to our assistance center and we will reimburse you. Adventure sports in Cuba A trip to Cuba offers a wide range of possibilities in terms of activities and sports. Most activities are not covered by normal travel insurance policies, but with both IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star you can enjoy your time abroad with the best protection. Kayaking along the coast of your resort, discovering the breathtaking underground caves scattered throughout the island, exploring areas like Viñales by bike or on foot, enjoying activities like surfing, kite surfing, or admiring the underwater world through snorkelling or diving up to 40 meters. These are just a few of the many activities that can be covered by the Adventure Sports coverage included in your policy. No deductibles, you don’t have to pay anything out of your pocket A policy that includes a deductible, such as 100 euros, will require you to pay the first 100 euros of any medical expenses, even if you’ve already paid for the full amount of your travel insurance to Cuba. Unfortunately, this condition is often hidden in the fine print and disguised as a lower price, ultimately resulting in a much more expensive policy. At IATI, we’re proud to offer policies without any deductibles. That means we’ll cover every euro of your medical expenses. No advance payment for medical care Some travellers purchase their travel insurance for Cuba without taking the time to read the policy conditions, only to realize their mistake when it’s already too late. Those with similar policies, although they may cover expenses, often require travellers to make payments upfront, with reimbursement only coming weeks or even months later. At IATI, this does not happen and, thanks to your IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star travel insurance for Cuba, we will pay all expenses without you having to pay anything in advance. The process is very simple. When you need medical assistance, just contact us and we will refer you to the nearest quality center, where you can receive the best care. When you get there, they will be waiting for you and, once your visit is over, we will pay for the medical care and any tests or medications prescribed by the specialist. If, due to an emergency, you are unable to contact us and must go directly to the hospital to receive assistance, do not worry. Just keep the invoices, receipts, and medical reports, and once you send them to us, we will reimburse you as quickly as possible. Lost luggage and theft included During your trip, you may be confronted with incidents that go beyond health, and the best travel insurance for Cuba should also have support for these types of cases. Therefore, if you have problems with lost or stolen luggage during your trip, thanks to our travel insurances, you will be protected for up to €2,500 with your IATI Star and up to €1,500 with your IATI Total Comfort. If the problem is a delay in the delivery of your luggage, you can count on up to 300 euros (with IATI Star policy) and 120 euros (with IATI Total Comfort policy) to cover basic needs that you may need, within the clauses of the conditions. Cancellation option – cancelling your trip to Cuba For many people, a trip to Cuba is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This adventure is tied to flight expenses, accommodation reservations in the country, activity bookings, excursions, etc. But what would happen if you had to cancel your trip for a serious reason? Would you lose all the money you had invested? Not at all! With over 135 years of experience in the travel insurance industry, at IATI, we’re constantly striving to provide innovative products that meet the needs of modern travellers. That’s why we were the first to introduce the Cancellation Option to our policies. By choosing an IATI Total Comfort policy, you’ll receive double protection, and if you’re unable to travel for any covered reason, we’ll reimburse you for up to 2,000 euros in expenses that you’re unable to recover directly from your travel suppliers. Don’t worry, if you are travelling with IATI Star you will also be protected and we’ll reimburse you up to 5000 euros in expenses. Travel Insurance Coverage for Cuba Now that you know the coverage your travel insurance for Cuba should have, you may be interested in learning more about the features offered by the most popular policies among travellers heading to this Caribbean island. On the IATI Total Comfort and IATI Star pages, you can find detailed information about our policy and its benefits. In the following table, as a summary, we show you some of the coverages if you are travelling from the EU: If you are travelling from outside the EU, here is the summary of the features of the best travel insurance: How much does travel insurance for Cuba cost? The cost of your travel insurance for Cuba, is what will convince you of the great quality/price ratio. As you can see, the price of a two-week trip is lower than the price of one night in a medium hotel in areas like Varadero, which means that your international insurance will be a minimal cost in your travel budget. In addition, this is an expense that will turn into a huge saving in case you need any type of assistance: How to buy the best travel insurance for Cuba Buying your travel insurance for Cuba through our intuitive menu is quick and easy, following the steps below. In the menu, you should enter your travel details: • Your country of residence • The destination of your trip: in this case, Cuba • The start and end dates of your trip • The number of travellers • Type of insurance: travel insurance After filling out these fields and clicking on “Get a quote”, select IATI Total Comfort or IATI Star and then click on “Contract”. At this point, you can add the Travel Cancellation Option that we mentioned above, which will allow you to recover up your travel expenses if you cannot travel for any of the reasons mentioned above. Simply fill in your personal information, make the payment, and within minutes you will receive an email with the details of your policy, including contact information for when you need assistance. It’s incredibly easy to get travel insurance for Cuba – the whole process can take as little as 3 minutes! Useful information for a safe trip to Cuba Best time to travel to Cuba The best time to travel to Cuba in terms of weather is between november and april, which is commonly referred to as the “dry season”. During this period, the weather is slightly cooler without the intense heat of other months and there is significantly less rainfall. Additionally, hurricanes are very rare during this time of the year. Safety in Cuba Cuba is one of the safest destinations in the region, and people are usually friendly, open, and willing to help visitors. This is a safe trip, and if necessary, precautions are taken. Health in Cuba Cuba has a world-renowned healthcare system. It is free for its citizens but involves a high cost for tourists. For this reason, and to ensure that you receive the quality care you deserve on a trip like this, it is essential (and mandatory) to have travel insurance for Cuba. Get your travel insurance now and travel with the protection offered by the best insurance for Cuba!

What to do in Zanzibar: the best experiences

7 minutos de lectura

Fancy a trip to one of the most desirable destinations in the Indian Ocean? Perfect! Today, on the IATI blog, we bring you a selection of the best experiences you can have in Zanzibar. Enjoy spectacular white sandy beaches, with the sea displaying hundreds of shades of blue and green. You’ll find luxurious resorts, diverse seabeds, and unique endemic species. Just remember that in Zanzibar, everything works at a relaxed pace, or in other words, little by little. So, leave the rush and stress at home because you’re heading to paradise. A place where all problems are solved with a Hakuna Matata. Getting to Zanzibar A 20-minute flight on a small plane with 12 seats awaits you, bringing an island half the size of Majorca right to your feet. Undoubtedly, this short journey is the best introduction to this African pearl, located 36 kilometres off the coast of Tanzania. While the island can be accessed from various international airports, most travellers take off from Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) and fly over the ocean to reach Zanzibar. Alternatively, ferries depart from Dar es Salaam harbour. Fast ferries take about 2 hours, and slower, more affordable ferries take 4 hours. The official ticket offices are located at the Azam Marine-Coastal Fast Ferries building. Enjoying life on dream beaches Driving on bumpy roads has its rewards: access to Zanzibar’s stunning beaches, which are considered by many as the best in Africa. The most beautiful ones are concentrated on the East Coast. Long stretches of white sand, sheltered by coral reefs and adorned with slender palm trees, extend from Nungwi, one of the main tourist spots on the northern tip of the island—where you can observe dhows being built—to Jambiani, a beach famous for the incredible turquoise hues of its waters. Take note of these names: Kendwa, located very close to Nungwi and perfect for swimming; Pongwe, a quiet and uncrowded beach; Matemwe, boasting a lively village and fine sand; and Paje, an ideal spot for kitesurfing. However, keep in mind that swimming in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean always depends on the tide. Precisely on these beaches, you can book all the excursions we are going to recommend and even customize them to your liking by negotiating with the staff. Another option to book these excursions is to go through a local agency. Sail aboard a dhow cruise in Menai Bay One of Zanzibar’s most popular activities is sailing around Menai Bay, a marine reserve in the southwest, dotted with picture-postcard sandbanks, mangroves, and coral reefs. You’ll embark on this adventure aboard a dhow, a sailing vessel of Arab origin that once transported goods and now carries travellers with the soul of explorers. The plan for the trip: snorkel, sunbathe on an uninhabited islet, stop for lunch – usually a barbecue buffet and fall in love with this corner of Zanzibar, which has been protected since 1997. A tip? If the tide is low, you’ll have to walk to the boat, so be sure to pack a waterproof rucksack and closed shoes. Safe travelling in Zanzibar This incredible African paradise awaits you with a wide variety of things to do. That’s why it’s essential to be able to enjoy them, knowing that if anything happens, you’ll always be in the best hands. It is extremely important to have travel insurance for Zanzibar that protects you from the beginning to the end of this experience. IATI Backpacker (click here if your country of residence is within the European Union; click here if your country of residence is not part of the European Union) offers the best insurance for this demanding destination, and thanks to its extensive coverage, it will take care of you at all times. Whether you’re engaging in adventure sports like snorkelling, facing problems with your luggage, experiencing theft, dealing with transportation issues, or requiring high medical coverage, IATI Backpacker has you covered. So choose to enjoy this destination with peace of mind, travel with confidence, and get your insurance now. Explore Stone Town in search of Zanzibar’s soul It would be unforgivable to travel to Zanzibar without stopping in Stone Town, the old town of its capital. It is a fascinating maze of narrow streets, declared a World Heritage Site, which witnessed the passage of various cultures that sought to conquer the island. Admire its famous wooden gates carved with large brass pieces, once used to deter elephants. Explore the vibrant Darajan market, where life goes on untouched by tourism. Visit the old Omani fort, the Persian baths, and the houses made of peeling coral stone. Take a stroll in the lively Forodhan Gardens and discover the historic House of Wonders and the Anglican Cathedral. The eerie cells of the former slave market serve as a poignant reminder that this island was once the main slave-trading center in Africa. Notably, this is the birthplace of Freddy Mercury, making it well worth leaving the Dolce far niente of the beach for a few hours. A word of advice: try to avoid the papacy, the unofficial guides who will attempt to convince you to hire their services. From Stone Town, you can take a boat to Prison Island, which has a significant historical past as a slave prison and quarantine centre for the sick. Today, it has transformed into a nature reserve housing giant tortoises that were brought from Seychelles in the late 19th century. Walk through Jozani Forest to see the last red colobus monkeys You shouldn’t leave the island without visiting Jozani Forest because it is the only place in the world where you can find the red colobus monkey, a species at serious risk of extinction. Approximately 2,300 of these monkeys live here, and they are pretty accustomed to the presence of tourists, making it a unique and unforgettable experience. Additionally, Jozani Forest is the last remaining rainforest stronghold in Zanzibar, adding to its significance. However, due to the high humidity and usually hot weather, the forest is prone to mosquitoes. To enjoy your visit comfortably, we recommend wearing trousers and a long-sleeved T-shirt, applying mosquito repellent, and carrying water to stay hydrated. The guided tour, lasting about 2 hours, will take you through mangroves, alongside substantial mahogany trees and sycamores, allowing you to discover the great ecological value of this area. While there is a small coffee shop available, it’s a good idea to bring your water for additional refreshment. Make sure to explore Jozani Forest to see the last red colobus monkeys and appreciate the remarkable natural beauty of this unique ecosystem. Eat or Drink at The Rock Indulge in a unique dining experience at The Rock, a small luxury restaurant perched on a rock that can only be reached by boat at high tide. While it may be a popular spot featured in countless Instagram galleries, it offers an unforgettable culinary adventure. We can’t deny that it’s a touristy destination, but the quality of the food and the exceptional location make it a worthwhile experience. Situated opposite Michanwi Pingwe Beach and surrounded by the enchanting beauty of the Indian Ocean, dining at The Rock is a truly magical experience. Visit a Spice Plantation In the 19th century, during the Sultanate of Oman’s reign, Zanzibar flourished in a golden age, fuelled by the trade in cloves and other spices. While its significance in the national economy has diminished today, there are still plantations in the centre of the island that you can visit during an excursion. There, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the culinary and therapeutic properties of spices like the ubiquitous cloves, as well as vanilla, black pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, and discover exotic tropical fruits you might not be familiar with. The visit only takes a few hours, so if you’re up for it, you know what to do. Snorkelling or Scuba Diving at Mnemba Atoll For snorkelling enthusiasts, the enchanting seabed you’re seeking lies at the atoll of the tiny Mnemba Island, Zanzibar’s most famous marine protected area. Prepare to be amazed by vibrant coral reefs, schools of tuna, barracuda, colourful fish, and even the chance to spot green turtles and dolphins. It’s the perfect activity to discover that the underwater beauty of this island is just as fascinating as the beauty on land. Collecting Stunning Sunsets Whether you’re in the gardens of Forodhani, on a secluded desert islet, lying in a hammock, or sipping a cocktail at a resort, it doesn’t matter where you are in Zanzibar; you’re in for an unforgettable treat. Zanzibar’s sunsets are some of the most breathtaking you’ll ever witness. As the sun slowly descends, the sky transforms into vivid shades of red and orange, while the sand glistens with a golden glow. The beauty is simply mesmerising. If you find yourself wishing to stop time and make these sunsets last forever, don’t worry, you’re not alone. We’ve all yearned for the same magical experience. What do you think about this variety of things to do in Zanzibar? We’re sure you can’t wait any longer to go to this paradise! Let’s go!