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Trawick International Celebrates 25th Anniversary

February 2023 marks the 25th anniversary of Trawick International.

What started out as a one-man international student insurance brokerage in the bedroom of founder Daryl Trawick's then-home has grown into the international company that it is today. Many things have changed at Trawick International over the last 25 years, but one thing remains the same: our appreciation for and commitment to our customers. Thanks for being part of our journey so far. Stay tuned for lots of exciting happenings this year, including a few new travel insurance plans to help keep you protected no matter what your travel budget or style is.

To quote our President and CEO, Daryl Trawick, "Along with the employees, I want to thank our customers and partners. Without them, we could not exist. The best is yet to come, and I look forward to many more years of growth and innovation."

Want to learn more about the story of Trawick International? Read the press release | Watch the Video

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Qatar Health Insurance Requirements

As of February 1, 2023, all foreign visitors trying to enter Qatar will have to provide a medical insurance policy from Qatar’s list of registered companies. Your policy must be effective for the entire duration of your stay in Qatar, and can be purchased upon arrival or in advance, although strongly encouraged to secure the insurance prior to traveling.

We suggest you really pay attention to the Emergency Medical coverage maximum on the plan you intend on purchasing, as the potential for high medical expenses while in a foreign country can be extreme. This coverage can protect you and offer reimbursement for expenses due to unforeseen illness or injury while traveling, as well as COVID-19 treatment in some policies. This coverage can also be used to cover the cost of transportation to the nearest medical facility during your stay.

Another important benefit to look at is your Trip Cancellation coverage. This coverage will protect and reimburse you for any non-refundable, pre-paid trip costs that may be lost if you cannot take the trip at all. Some things covered for this may include plane tickets, excursion bookings, sports tickets, and more. Trip Cancellation policies can also include coverage for much more, such as lost/stolen baggage, baggage delay, missed connection, or trip interruption.

As always, make sure to stay up to date with all travel news before traveling, and check the Visit Qatar website to make sure you have everything you need before your trip!

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Japan Set to End Mask Requirements on Aircrafts

Starting March 13, 2023, Japan will begin to ease all COVID-19 guidelines in effect. This includes mask requirements on public transportation and within schools to become simple recommendations rather than forced mandates.

According to Kyodo News, Japan will downgrade the legal status of COVID-19 to the same category as common infectious diseases such as the flu. This downgrade will not officially come into effect until May 8, 2023. This will lead the way for airlines to begin dropping mask mandates in Japan, as well. Some of the leading Japanese airlines have already stated that they will make mask-wearing a “personal choice” starting May 8th. Currently, all passengers other than infants are required to wear a mask and to limit conversation as much as possible while aboard the aircraft.

If you’re headed to Japan after these COVID-19 mask mandates are lifted and are still worried about getting sick, travel medical insurance is your safest option. Our International Travel Medical Insurance provides medical coverage for you once you leave your home country. Many of our plans treat COVID-19 like any other illness. Chat with one of our customer service representatives today to help find the best plan for your trip.

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U.S. House Votes to End Vaccine Requirement for Air Travel

A bill to end the requirement for non-citizens of the United States to provide proof of a COVID-19 vaccination before traveling into the country has passed in the House of Representatives. Next, it moves to the Senate and White House for voting. At this time, there is no indication whether the proposed legislation will even be considered by the Upper House.

The White House has also recently announced that they are making plans to end the national emergency and public health emergency declarations related to COVID-19 as early as May 11th. Many travel companies have come out in support of this bill, some even saying that it is long overdue.

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