Health matters

Customers are reminded that they should check with their own doctor for advice on medical requirements of the host countries.

From 1st January 2006, the E111 travel health insurance document has been replaced by the new European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). The old style E111 ceased to be valid from 1st January 2006. Travellers who wish to use this facility must apply for the new EHIC by one of the methods stated in the T7 booklet or on the website www.dh.gov.uk/travellers or by calling 0845 606 2030 as you will need to present the EHIC card for reciprocal treatment.

Information about free and reduced-cost emergency care and medical treatment in most EU countries can be found in the leaflet T7 “Health Advice for Travellers”, which is available free from post offices, local Department of Health offices, GPs and libraries, or by calling the Health Literature Line on 0300 123 1002.

However, as this only provides limited cover, we require all our customers to have adequate holiday insurance cover. Therefore, please ensure that you have arranged sufficient alternative insurance. For treatment in any country you will need to produce your passport.

High altitude: For customers going to high altitude resorts, it is suggested that, if relevant, you contact your GP as some customers encounter difficulties due to the high altitude of the resort. Please bear in mind that when walking at altitude you should allow time to acclimatise physically, drink plenty of water, reduce alcohol intake and ensure that appropriate warm clothing is taken. Your doctor and suitable publications will provide further information in this regard.

Special Needs, Disabled and Elderly Customers: We are happy to advise and assist elderly, special needs or disabled customers to choose a holiday. However, some of the properties featured in this brochure may lack even the simplest facilities such as ramps for wheelchairs and lifts etc. Therefore, we must be provided with full written details of any disability or special requirements before booking to ascertain whether the holiday of your choice is suitable.

A comprehensive form is available specifically for this purpose, which you should request when making your booking. Similarly, if you have a medical condition which necessitates special seating requirements on the aircraft or wheelchair assistance at the airport we must have written confirmation from your doctor prior to booking.

Failure to advise us of any such requirements prior to booking may result in the chosen holiday being unsuitable and may cause inconvenience and distress to all customers on that holiday. In that case we reserve the right to terminate your holiday arrangements with us, for which we would not be liable to make alternative arrangements or to make refunds or pay compensation.

The Foreign & Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit

The Foreign & Commonwealth Travel Advice Unit may have issued information about your holiday destination. You are advised to check this information on BBC2 (Ceefax) or on the Internet under the address www.fco.gov.uk, or phone 0845 850 2829. Alternatively, you can contact the ABTA Information Department on 020 3117 0500 (calls charged at 50p/minute).

Know Before You Go

We are working with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to do all that we can to help British travellers stay safe overseas.

Before you go overseas, check out the FCO web site at: www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo.

Safety First

Personal Safety

Most resorts are generally safe, but holidaymakers are advised not to walk alone at night in unlit areas or display jewellery or valuables.

Health & Safety

We promote good hygiene practices within hotels, but the hygiene standards in some foreign countries, particularly developing destinations, are generally much lower than in the UK. Care should be taken to minimise the risk of holiday sickness, especially among pregnant women, infants and the elderly.

Colder temperatures and high altitude abroad, combined with alcohol and new foods, can cause minor stomach upsets so bring remedies from home. Taking simple precautions can also help to avoid problems. Care should be taken when choosing to eat outside of the hotel. Drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks and desserts. Ensure that raw fruit and vegetables are thoroughly washed or peeled. Food should be properly cooked and served piping hot or chilled accordingly. Avoid food and buffets that have been left for long hours. Your General Practitioner can also provide up-to-date health advice and we recommend that you consult your doctor well in advance before travelling.

Safety Aboard Ship

All passengers are required to attend the safety drill held during the first 24 hours aboard ship. All ships comply with SOLAS requirements for health and safety at sea. Ask your travel agent to see the Travel Advice section of TOPical for up to date advice and the latest known Foreign Office advice.

First for Accommodation

It’s important to remember that safety and hygiene standards in many foreign countries may differ from those taken for granted at home. While our hotels and facilities are always obliged to meet local safety regulations, these may not match UK standards which are among the highest in the world. This applies to some Mediterranean resorts as well as more exotic destinations. We nevertheless seek to raise standards in all our overseas destinations by taking the advice of the UK’s leading health and safety organisations on issues that concern you:

Information

At Thomson Lakes & Mountains, we believe that information contributes to safety and, in addition to the details on this page, we ask all our customers to read the Essential Information booklet you will receive with your tickets, the Safety First leaflet you will receive on arrival in resort and the information displayed on your accommodation Information Board and in your hotel Information book. Customers flying with Britannia Airways should also look out for our Safety First in-flight video. In terms of customer care, this is another first for Thomson Lakes & Mountains.

First for Pools, Beaches & Lakes

It is important to remember, especially when travelling with children, to take a few minutes to familiarise yourself and your party with the pool area on arrival. Children must always be accompanied by an adult in the pool, including children’s pools and surrounding areas, and at all other times. Familiarise yourself with flag warning systems that may be in operation on local beaches, and take into account local conditions. Guided by The Royal Life Saving Society UK, we also provide in-resort information detailing local beach, sea areas and lakes.

First for Fun in the Sun

The sun in alpine resorts can be very strong. Thomson Lakes & Mountains has worked closely with the Department of Health to provide you with expert tips for safety in the sun. You’ll find these listed in the Safety First leaflet given to you in resort. Do make sure you take an adequate supply of any medicines needed, as prescription equivalents may not be available in your holiday area.

First for Families

For your peace of mind we’ve consulted the experts about playground and pool safety, child supervision and other general issues. During your holiday, our Representatives will highlight any safety concerns identified in your resort.

First for Children

Our younger customers are very important to us and we aim to keep them fully entertained at our Crèches and Kids Clubs. Working closely with Kids’ Club Network, we have established guidelines to make sure that all clubs provide a suitable environment and operate safe procedures. Your co-operation as parents is essential and you’ll be happier knowing that your children are in safe hands.

And Lastly, Customer Aid

Thomson Lakes & Mountains holidaymakers are required to purchase appropriate holiday insurance. Although accidents do happen, prevention is always better than cure. A useful free booklet called ‘Health Advice for Travellers’ (number T6) is available from your Doctor, ABTA Travel Agent, larger Post Offices or by telephone FREEPHONE 0800 555777.

Guide books are a useful source of information. For the most up-to-date information on your chosen destination, ask your travel agent to check Thomson’s computerised database, Topical (Travel Advice Section). This also provides the latest Foreign Office Advice notifications (also available on CEEFAX – BBC2), tel 0845 850 2829, or on the internet under the address www.fco.gov.uk

Alternatively, you can contact the ABTA information Department on 020 3117 0500 (calls charged at 50p/minute).