westjet vacations travel protection 2022

Flexibility and protection for your vacation – Travel Protection Plan for WestJet Vacations 

WESTJET  TRAVEL PROTECTION $89pp/$129pp  Dec10-Jan10

The WestJet Vacations Travel Protection Plan must be purchased at the time of booking by all guests sharing a room in vacation packages and land-only bookings to destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean and is non-refundable excluding Sandals, Beaches and Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts.

Cancellations will be accepted for any reason prior to departure as follows:

21 days or more before departure 100% refund to the original form of payment.

20 days to 3 days before departure 100% refund in WestJet dollars

Nonrefundable if cancelled less than 3 days before departure.

In the event of a cancellation, WestJet dollars issued can only be applied towards a new vacation package after a 15-day waiting period.$100 cancellation fee applicable

One-time Name Change: Name changes can be made up until 7 days prior to departure. More than one name change can be completed within the same phone call for no extra fee.$50 administration fee applicable

One-time Change: Changes to departure dates, destinations, room categories or occupancy can be made up until 3 days before departure, subject to hotel and flight availability; changes to the hotel are not permitted. If the change(s) results in an increase to the vacation package or land-only booking price, the difference in price must be collected from the guest; no refund is issued if the new price is lower than the original price, and for clarity, the balance is forfeited by the guest. More than one change can be completed within the same phone call for no extra change fee.$100 administration fee applicable

Offer is subject to change without notice.

Hurricanes and Tropical Storms: If a hurricane or tropical storm travel advisory is issued for a guest’s origin or destination on their travel dates, a guest may change or cancel their reservation at any time before the first scheduled flight and no change or cancellation fee will be charged. For hurricane or tropical storm date changes, all travel must be completed within one year and the package value must be the same; if the value of the new package increases, the difference in price must be collected from the guest. For hurricane or tropical storm cancellations, the full value of your vacation package is refunded to WestJet dollars. WestJet dollars expire one year from the date of issuance.

For full details go to travel protection at https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/legal/travel-terms-conditions/westjet-vacations

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Important Notice: Effective March 11, 2020, we have determined coronavirus to be a known event for Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption. As a result, for policies purchased on or after March 11, 2020, any Trip Cancellation or Trip Interruption claims related to coronavirus will not be payable. For more information, please click here .

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New agent promos, tools and updates: 9 need-to-knows from WestJet & WestJet Vacations’ Travel Trade Expo

Post date: Sep 13 2022

Date: Sep 13 2022

By: Cindy Sosroutomo

MISSISSAUGA — WestJet and WestJet Vacations hammered home one key message at yesterday’s Travel Trade Expo in Toronto – that they love and value travel agents.

Back in person for the first time since 2019, the companies’ hugely popular, multi-city Travel Trade Expos kicked off yesterday, Sept. 12, at The International Centre in Toronto with over 350 travel agents, all of whom received high praise from members of the executive teams and learned about new agent-friendly promotions and resources. Another 275 agents are expected at the Calgary show on Sept. 14, and 300 more in Vancouver on Sept. 15.

Though the venue may change from city to city, the gratitude shown towards agents will remain the same, says Chuck Crowder, Vice-President, Sales & Distribution, WestJet Vacations and Contact Centres.

“We never would have been able to get through this summer without travel agents,” he told Travelweek. “I do realize the stress that travel put on them because, obviously, we’re trying to build back our business and it was just change after change after change. But we’re in a place now where we’ve learned so much and we know how to really schedule appropriately.”

WestJet Vacations’ Director Dave Cecco also reiterated Crowder’s sentiments, telling Travelweek that despite the “nonstop changes and adjustments” to flight schedules, operations and product lineups, travel agents remain unwavering in their support.

“Thank you for still being here and for still supporting us. We all had to work together to overcome this because it was so new for all of us. When you think about what everyone had to do to get through Covid, it’s quite emotional. So we’re just really grateful to agents for being there with us – and for us – as our strong partners,” says Cecco.

To read more of our interview with Crowder, including key touchpoints like airport delays, ArriveCAN and the new Airline Passenger Protection Regulations, scroll down.

Yesterday’s Expo, which included presentations from WestJet, WestJet Vacations and key sponsors as well as a trade show featuring 67 suppliers, highlighted several agent innovations and promotions that garnered major applause from the audience. Here are nine key takeaways from WestJet and WestJet Vacations:

• New Live Chat function : To help alleviate long call centre hold times, WestJet Vacations launched Live Chat on Sept. 12, allowing agents to live chat with a company agent who can assist them with several tasks and functions. These include applying WestJet Dollars; adding, removing or editing WestJet Rewards; adding, removing or editing a phone number or email; requesting e-docs or invoices; making same-day schedule changes for an alternative flight, based on availability in the same cabin class; and making requests for reservations, special services and hotel preferences like bed configuration, location, adjoining rooms and accessibility requirements. Agents should note that Live Chat does not handle any payments and additional collection refunds due to privacy compliancy.
• Bonus commission . As a token of gratitude for travel agents, WestJet Vacations is offering a bonus 2% commission on all bookings made between Sept. 12-30, 2022, for travel from Sept. 12, 2022 to Aug. 8, 2023. The offer is valid for all destinations and is eligible for all trade bookings. Bonus commissions will automatically be confirmed on agents’ invoices at the time of booking.
• Travel agent air discount . WestJet announced a special Expo Air Offer for travel agents that includes 30% off Basic and Econo fares, to any region, if booked by Sept. 18, 2022, for travel by May 31, 2023. There are no blackout dates apply. WestJet also has an Everyday Offer featuring discounted rates on Business, Premium and Econo fares for travel agents and one companion.
• The return of Amsterdam . WestJet has just received airport slots to return to Amsterdam, where it previously offered seasonal service, on a year-round basis. Plus, with partner KLM, WestJet passengers will be able to travel beyond Amsterdam via easy connections. More information is expected within the next week.
• New pamphlet : Hot off the press is WestJet Vacations’ new mini 24-page pamphlet. Rackable and client facing with space in the back for agents’ contact details, the pamphlet doubles as a quick reference guide featuring the tour operator’s winter schedule, flights at a glance, hotel collections including adults-only, and a QR code that takes clients directly to the company’s travel protection plan.
• COVID WestJet dollars and commissions extended : Originally set to expire at the end of September 2022, COVID WestJet dollars have been extended until Dec. 31, 2022. In addition, WestJet Vacations is paying commissions on the full value of the rebooked package booked until Dec. 31, 2022 where COVID WestJet dollars are being redeemed.
• Swoop flights : As previously reported , WestJet Vacations is now offering Swoop flights as part of vacation packages, available to book exclusively through travel agents. According to Shannon Cunningham, Manager at WestJet Vacations, these Swoop flights include Jamaica, Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Las Vegas. Plus, new this winter are Toronto-Varadero flights with Swoop as part of a WestJet Vacations package, “which offers really great, attractive pricing,” said Cunningham. Swoop flights combined with a WestJet Vacations package include one carry on and are commissionable to travel agents at the same rate.
• Destination lounges & private transfers : In addition to Club MoBay in Montego Bay, WestJet Vacations has added other destination lounges in Antigua, Barbados and Punta Cana, and is currently working on adding more in Mexico. They are all commissionable and available for agents to book. Agents can also book private transfers to the majority of WestJet Vacations’ destinations, or even book a shared direct transfer. Premium in-destination lounges as well as private and shared transfers are all self-bookable via SIREV/REVNET.
• Instant savings : Clients can save up to $400 on select seven-night packages to sun destinations in Mexico, the Dominican Republic, the Caribbean and Hawaii, if booking between Sept. 12-30, 2022, for travel between Sept. 12, 2022 to April 30, 2023.

SHIFTING FOCUS: WESTJET’S ROUTE NETWORK

Speaking to travel agents directly, Crowder said that in an effort to remain its competitive advantage, WestJet will be shifting its footprint out of eastern Canada to focus more on its hubs out west.

“This doesn’t mean we’re abandoning the east – we’re actually going to grow the east, especially in the leisure market where it makes sense,” he said. “But we’re going to shift more of our flying and really build out what that complex looks like west of Winnipeg.”

This, he added, involves moving all of WestJet’s 787s to focus in the West as a way to control costs.

“We have a fleet of seven but when you spread those across Canada, we also have to have crew bases, maintenance, spare parts – that adds complexity and cost that we don’t want to do,” said Crowder.

WestJet’s approach will also see the airline shift its Q400 flying from the east to concentrate in the west, and even reduce the number of Q400s that it currently flies because “based on the way we’re building out the complex, we will need larger aircraft to fill that up and we know we can drive that demand,” he added.

THE RETURN OF LEISURE & SUN

What’s really been spearheading WestJet’s recovery is the leisure market, which according to Crowder has been the segment that has bounced back the fastest and strongest in the last year, even surpassing 2019 levels in many cases. In comparison, Corporate, though showing signs of recovery, is not rebounding as quickly as WestJet expected. It will most likely take another two years for Corporate to fully recover, said Crowder.

To meet increasing demand for leisure travel, WestJet will be building out its network not only in the east but also in the west, with new destinations, new service and more point-to-point flying.

“What you will see is, flights like inter-province will go away, but what we will be doing is adding more east-west flying,” said Crowder. “So think Ottawa to Calgary, to Vancouver, or out of Montreal versus the triangle between Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa.”

Last month, WestJet unveiled its winter sun program for 2022-23, which includes the return of 17 sun and leisure routes that it did not serve last winter.

“We have 45% more ASMs (Available Seat Miles) to leisure and sun destinations, which are booking quickly,” he added. “We always say book early because capacity in hotels are filling up.”

Crowder also told advisors to expect an increase in trans-border flying, which ties in with WestJet’s alliance with Delta , first announced back in October 2020.

“We’re adding more codeshare service and more connectivity to their hubs and beyond, and we’re constantly adding more loyalty benefits, reciprocity and earning opportunities within WestJet rewards on Delta flights,” said Crowder.

WESTJET & SUNWING

It’s been six months since news broke that WestJet will be acquiring Sunwing Vacations and Sunwing Airlines , a deal that Crowder said will give travel agents more exciting opportunities to sell. Still under review by Transport Canada and yet to be approved by the federal government, WestJet has completed all regulatory filings and is expecting an answer from the feds by end of October, said Crowder.

“We do believe that this will get approved without any issues and then the hard work starts with integrating everything,” he added. “Sunwing is so strong in the east and we’re strong in the west. They’re the number one tour operator in Canada but they also have this airline with 18 aircraft that they’re good at operating. But while they’re really good at the land portion side of things, managing the aircraft isn’t their forte. So this merger will really bring about additional benefits, not only opportunities for you to sell, but for Canadians to get where they want to go.”

Crowder told agents that both airlines will operate as two separate brands “for quite a while” under one leadership group. “Until we get through that, there are a lot of things that have to happen to integrate them into the WestJet Group of Companies,” he said.

WestJetters Melissa Peterson (left), Sarah Barton and Cindy Gerhardt

AIRPORT DELAYS, ARRIVECAN & MASKING

When asked by Travelweek whether WestJet is satisfied with the progress being made at Canada’s major airports, particularly Toronto Pearson, in terms of alleviating massive delays, Crowder said that the situation has vastly improved since the summer when delays were at its peak. With labour shortages largely to blame, airports have been bogged down by long lineups and flight disruptions for months now, unable to keep up with record travel demand following the easing of travel measures , including the lowering of Canada’s travel advisory.

“Pearson has done a great job at trying to fix everything, but it’s really been a joint effort,” said Crowder. “Everyone is committed – not only the airport but also CATSA (Canadian Air Transport Security Authority), Customs Border Patrol, US Customs Border Patrol and all the airlines – to fixing the issues here. We’ve seen significant improvements week over week.”

Crowder noted that runway construction at Toronto Pearson during the summer months compounded the issue, but the issue has levelled off heading into the all-important winter season, with “all airlines that fly out of Pearson being set up for success.”

As for Canada’s ArriveCAN app, which is mandatory for anyone entering Canada by air, land, rail or marine vessel through at least Sept. 30 , Crowder, like many in the travel industry, believes it should be eliminated if it has outlived its purpose of facilitating COVID-19 contact tracing and monitoring vaccination statuses among air arrivals.

“WestJet’s stance is, if it drives value and does not hold up the process for us, then yes, it serves a purpose. But if it serves no purpose, knowing where we are today in the pandemic, we need to start getting rid of these issues.”

These issues also include mandatory masking at airports and in aircraft, added Crowder, which vary from airport to airport, province to province.

“At Pearson you have to wear a mask. But Calgary just got rid of their mask mandate in the airport, except when going through security or immigration,” he said. “So there are all these competing rule in each province, based on whether it’s federally controlled or provincially controlled. That confuses guests and makes it difficult to maneuver through the travel ecosystem.”

Chuck Crowder

NEW APPR RULES NOW IN EFFECT

With broader rules under the Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR) now in effect, WestJet and all other airlines flying to, from and within Canada will certainly be impacted. As the new rules state, airlines must provide passengers with either a refund or rebooking in the event of a flight cancellation or a lengthy delay, due to a situation outside the airline’s control.

Is this fair to airlines? Certainly that’s up for debate, but Crowder did stress the importance of transparency for all players involved.

“We as an airline have to be very transparent with guests about why there may be a delay or cancellation as part of the rules. But the people who also service us, whether that be the caterers, Nav Canada or security, aren’t held to the same reporting protocol that airlines are,” he said.

When asked why he thinks airlines are held to a different standard, Crowder said they simply have become an easy target.

“Airlines are easy for the government to point to because we’re typically one of the longest parts of the journey and where people spend a lot of time. So I think it’s easy for the government to go down that path, to show that they’re supporting Canadians and consumer rights. But if you’re going to hold us to that standard, you should hold everyone else to the same standard because we can’t control what happens at, say, Nav Canada. If they’re short staffed and we can’t operate the flight, then our guests need to know that,” he added.

Tags: Latest News, Lead Story, WestJet, WestJet Vacations

Cindy is Deputy Editor at Travelweek and has worked for the company since 2007. She has travelled to more than 50 countries and counts Kenya, Morocco, Thailand and Turkey among her favourite destinations.

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WestJet Vacations  2022 / 2023  Protection Plan 

The WestJet Vacations Travel Protection Plan (the “Plan”) must be purchased at the time of booking by all guests sharing a room accommodation and is non-refundable.   Only applicable to vacation packages and land-only bookings to destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean. The Plan is not applicable to group bookings, Sandals, Beaches and Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts.  This plan is now available for US and Canada. 

WestJet Vacations Protection Plan

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WestJet Vacations - Baggage and Travel Protection Plan 

Westjet baggage fees.

When is your first bag free?

First bag fees are included when you have a WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard. The primary cardholder can cover the cost of the 1st bag for up to 8 guests on the same booking (not bad).

First bag fees are also included for: EconoFlex, Premium and Business fares.   WestJet Rewards members with Silver, Gold and Platinum status as well.

Second bags  are included for Premium and Business guests, as well as Silver, Gold, and Platinum Rewards members

Excess bags are included for Platinum Rewards members only.

You will be able to prepay for up to two pieces of checked baggage on WestJet operated flights when you book online or through  Manage Trips  at any time up to 24 hours before your flight.

Checked baggage fees may also be paid when you  check-in online or at the airport 24 hours to 60 minutes before you fly.  Watch out though because paying for you bags at this time adds an extra $10 per bag, so guests are encouraged to pre-pay for their first and second bags in advance.

FEES: Flights operated by WestJet :

• A fee of $30.00-35.40 CAD/USD will be charged for the first piece of checked baggage
• A fee of $50.00-59.00 CAD/USD will be charged for the second piece of baggage; and
• $100.00-118.00 CAD/USD for a third or fourth piece when selecting the pre-paid baggage option through the Contact Centre or self-managing through Manage Trips in advance of the 24-hour check-in window.
• If paying within 24hrs, add $10 more dollars
• Vacations booked with a Premium fare or Business fare receive 2 free checked bags. A fee of $100.00-118.00 CAD/USD will be charged for overweight or oversized baggage.
• Select sporting and hunting equipment are subject to a handling fee of $50.00-59.00 CAD/USD.

Currency will be based on the location of fee payment; outside of Canada all fees will be charged in USD.

For complete checked baggage information, visit https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/baggage/allowance . For a list of checked baggage fees, visit https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/flights/fees .

If all this is a lot… BOOK WITH JAZZ

WestJet Vacations  Travel Protection Plan 

WESTJET    TRAVEL PROTECTION    $89pp  (during the holidays it can run up to $149pp)

The WestJet Vacations Travel Protection Plan must be purchased at the time of booking by all guests sharing a room in vacation packages and land-only bookings to destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean and is non-refundable.  The exceptions are to those traveling to Sandals, Beaches and Grand Pineapple Beach Resorts.

One-time Free Name Change : Name changes can be made up until seven (7) days prior to departure. More than one name change can be completed within the same phone call for no fee. Single occupancy name changes are not permitted.

One-time Change Fee Waived : Changes to departure dates, destinations, room categories or occupancy can be made up until seven (7) days before departure, subject to hotel and flight availability. If the change(s) results in an increase to the vacation package or land-only booking price, the difference in price must be collected from the guest; no refund is issued if the new price is lower than the original price, and for clarity, the balance is forfeited by the guest. More than one change can be completed within the same phone call for no change fee.

Cancellation Fee Waived :

• Cancellations will be accepted 21 days or more before departure on vacation packages, or before the first hotel’s check-in on land-only bookings, and the booking price will be refunded back to the original form of payment.
• Cancellations made 20 days to three (3) day before departure on vacation packages, or before the first hotel’s check-in on land-only bookings for destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean, and 20 days to seven (7) days before departure for destinations in Canada and the United States, will result in 100% refund to WestJet dollars;
• Cancellations made less than three (3) days before departure for destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean, or less than seven (7) days before departure for destinations in Canada and the United States will result in a full forfeit.

Car rentals, private transfers, excursions, theme park tickets and other attractions are non-refundable.

In case of cancellation, WestJet dollars issued can only be applied towards a new vacation package after a 15-day waiting period.

Offer is subject to change without notice.

Hurricanes and Tropical Storms : If a hurricane or tropical storm travel advisory is issued for a guest’s origin or destination on their travel dates, a guest may change or cancel their reservation at any time before the first scheduled flight and no change or cancellation fee will be charged. For hurricane or tropical storm date changes, all travel must be completed within one year and the package value must be the same; if the value of the new package increases, the difference in price must be collected from the guest. For hurricane or tropical storm cancellations, the full value of your vacation package is refunded to WestJet dollars. WestJet dollars expire one year from the date of issuance.

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WestJet Vacations enhances agent support

January 9, 2014

In a move designed to further support its travel agent partners, WestJet Vacations has introduced the WestJet Vacations flex team, available to provide booking assistance for those unable to complete through self-serve options.

There will be dedicated contact centre agents available to assist agents through March.

About the flex team: Hours of operation are 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days per week; the WestJet Vacations flex team is set up to only take calls from travel agency partners. These agents will be dedicated to the technical aspect of travel agency calls.

Be sure to select “1” for travel agents when calling WestJet Vacations at 1-877-737-7001.

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Is Moscow Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

On Feb. 24, 2022, Russia invaded its neighbor country Ukraine, starting a war between these two countries.

This act of invasion caused many Ukrainians to flee their country and seek shelter in places like Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, etc…

At this time, we recommend no travel to Russia or Ukraine, or any neighboring countries for your own safety.

Russia : Safety by City

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Moscow, the capital of Russia, is a political, scientific, historical, architectural and business center of this huge country.

It’s one of the most visited places in Russia, and for good reason.

The best-known parts of Russia are concentrated precisely in the urban areas and cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

Moscow’s history attracts the most tourists, as they are fascinated by it is a surreal and sometimes brutal but nevertheless thrilling and jaw-dropping national story.

In this city, visited by 17 million tourists annually, the history, told in its numerous museums, some of which are the world’s greatest, interacts with modernity.

For example, in the Garden of Fallen Monuments (Fallen Monument Park), you can see entire clusters of modern art contrasting with the very non-conceptual Communist monuments.

• Warnings & Dangers in Moscow

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Generally speaking, Moscow today is safe as much as other cities in Europe, despite its problematic history with criminal activity in the 90s. However, if you’re planning on traveling to Moscow, keep in mind that you should always keep your guard up and remain aware of your surroundings, just in case.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Generally speaking, transportation in Moscow is safe, but you should bear in mind that kidnappings have been known to happen, mostly in unlicensed taxis, so be careful when hailing one on the streets. Keep in mind that the most dangerous areas where small crime tends to occur are the underground walkways, called “perekhods”. Only use official services like Yandex Taxi, Uber or Gett taxi.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpocketing is very common in Moscow, and surprisingly it is mostly performed by groups of children. Pay attention to your belongings, don’t leave them in plain sight and be especially careful in crowded places like stations or near tourist attractions.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Moscow isn’t particularly susceptible to natural disasters. Some blizzards and snowstorms are possible during winter which can affect the traffic and delay your flights. During winter, be prepared to face the below-freezing temperatures.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

The situation improved drastically when it comes to kidnappings and muggings. Generally, never accept free drinks or food when you’re in a club or a bar. Drink spiking and then attacking and robbing the victim have been reported on numerous occasions.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

After the recent terrorist attack in the subway in St. Petersburg the probability of this situation happening again in Moscow is very high.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

There are many scams in Moscow, usually performed by children trying to distract you and then steal some money from you. Never talk to strange kids on the street. Also, you should avoid playing street gambling games.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women are generally safe in Moscow, though you should avoid finding yourself alone in clubs or bars, and of course, apply all normal precaution measures like avoiding remote and poorly lit streets and areas.

• So... How Safe Is Moscow Really?

Moscow experienced a rise when it came to crime rates during the 1990s.

Violent crime, as well as petty crime and scams,  had increased, but the biggest part of the violence was within the criminal groups themselves, and it didn’t affect foreigners that much.

However, it decreased since the 90s, so right now, for tourists, Moscow isn’t more dangerous than any other European city, it’s even less so.

The crime rate in Moscow is fairly lower than one in New York, London or Paris, so you should feel safe here.

Also, you can count on the officials to be uncorrupted – don’t ever try to bribe them: you will be charged with bribery.

Bear in mind that if you are a member of the LGBT community, there is no reason to avoid Moscow altogether but you should refrain from any public displays of affection.

As of June 2013, “homosexual propaganda to minors” is prohibited, which means that any discussion of gay rights or homosexuality issues in the presence of minors is punishable by law.

While you walk around Moscow, you might encounter police officials that may demand to see your papers to check if you have been registered within 7 business days of your arrival into Moscow.

You shouldn’t have any problems with this, because if you stay in a hotel then you are automatically registered and will be handed a confirmation paper.

• How Does Moscow Compare?
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Most countries do need a visa to enter Russia, and if you’re a U.S. citizen you must possess both a valid U.S. passport and a bona fide visa issued by a Russian Embassy or Consulate. None of the nationals that do need a visa can acquire one upon arrival, so make sure you apply for your visa in advance. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

The Russian ruble is the official currency in Moscow. ATMs are widespread throughout the country and credit cards are accepted everywhere.

Moscow has a highly continental influenced climate characterized by warm to hot and dry summers and extremely cold, freezing winters with temperatures as low as -30°C – sometimes even lower, with heavy snowfall.

Sheremetyevo International Airport is the Russian busiest international airport. It is located in Molzhaninovsky District, Northern Administrative Okrug, in Moscow, about 29 km northwest of central Moscow.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we advise getting travel insurance when traveling to Moscow, because it would cover not only medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Moscow Weather Averages (Temperatures)

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Russia - Safety by City

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9 Reviews on Moscow

That's just not true.

The person who wrote the text obviously have never been in Moscow and in Russia at all. This is ridiculous. Even about pickpocketing, the risk at most is medium, mugging is zero in historical places but is pretty high in sleeping quarters

Your rating is only two stars for safety though? So I am confused. Are you rating the article to be in poor taste?

I went to Moscow in 2021. I enjoyed the trip. I felt there were “unsafe areas” so I avoided them. So long as you know where you are going and don’t insult the locals, you should be fine.

51% safe?! Is this out of date?

Moscow and Russia in general are MUCH SAFER than Paris or London, yet those latter are more than 15 points ahead?!

Hell, it’s even admitted in the above text: “Moscow isn’t more dangerous than any other European city, IT’S EVEN LESS SO.” Yeah, you bet! And then: “the crime rate in Moscow is fairly lower than one in New York, London or Paris, so you should feel safe here.” So why the low rating? I don’t get it.

Also, the latest terrorist attack in Moscow happened in 2010… so how can you honestly say that the risk is still “high”? Especially for the fact Russia is very much on the edge when it comes to fighting terrorism domestically and over the world.

Sure, it might not be ideal everywhere in Moscow, but it’s WAY SAFER than in Paris, especially at night. You just can’t go out in Paris after the evening anymore, in most areas (I got assaulted for no reason at Châtelet-les-Halles and taking the RER train at dark is becoming more and more risky)… while in Moscow, chances are that you’ll see girls in miniskirts walking home while quietly singing. Or maybe you’ll stumble upon some gorgeous lady asking you for a lighter and then giving you her number for a coffee the next day. So very dangerous!

I sense a serious bias, here. Is it because of that LGBT thing? Could you pick a more extreme case? Yeah, you can totally be gay in Russia, just be so in private. There even are transsexuals, but this is a traditional and respectable country, so you should respect their choice of not publicizing various sexual lifestyles.

Moscow and Saint Petersburg are safe

Moscow and Saint Petersburg are very safe in my opinion! I’ve been to both cities visiting family! There are so many people out on the streets and on public transportation- I felt very safe! You need to change your ratings!!

Any update on Covid-19 to visit Moscow

I visited 118 country and Moscow one of the safest city I have been, st Petersburg as well, I read this article hoping to find any update on covid-19 restrictions upon arrival, so if anyone can update I’m planning to visit Moscow again but I need to know if quarentain is required or mandatory, anyone can share, cheers.

In Russia nobody cares, masks off. I dont know if fiew thousands of infected per day are high for you though. I was never arrested for not wearing mask, but you have to have it on you. Sometimes cops ask to put mask, you just do that and everything ok, some shops can refuse to do service if you dont have mask. I assume they pressured by boss, so just put on mask, they can give you gloves and dont cause any problems.

Written by someone who never visited Russia

A veer biased review. Moscow or St. Petersburg for being such brilliant truly cosmopolitan cities are extremely safe. Pickpocketing in Russia?! By children?! Who wrote this? Clearly by someone who has never been to the great country of Russia.

Have never been there. But wish me well

Bias review, Moscow is much safer than that!

This review is so bias and just wrong! First of all apart from being a political, scientific and etc center, it is an absolutely beautiful city and a very culturally rich city. For tourists there’s a huge range of delicious food, amazing shopping, a lot of cultural activities, and all sorts of entertainment. I’ve travelled there in December 2019, and most of the time I spent walking around and exploring by myself, be it during day time or night, nothing happened to me once. I mostly used subways and sometimes taxi, both safe. Just have a common sense when it comes to safety and you’ll be fine. You need to travel there at least once in a lifetime, it’s a completely different experience and it’s a beautiful one, NOT a communistic terrorist epicenter as some describe it to be.

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• Moscow : Safety by City
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Airline Files for Bankruptcy, Grounds All Flights: Orlando Airport Braces for Disney Guest Fallout

in Walt Disney World

An airline filing for bankruptcy might affect your upcoming Walt Disney World vacation.

Disney World To See Fallout of Airline Bankruptcy

While several airlines benefit from the ongoing surge in travel demand post-pandemic, others are grappling with significant challenges such as soaring jet fuel costs, aircraft supply chain disruptions, and a limited customer base, particularly for regional carriers.

In 2024, several airlines, including Air Malta, Armenia’s FlyArna, Canada’s Lynx Air , and Antigua and Barbuda’s LIAT, either sought bankruptcy protection or ceased operations entirely. Air Vanuatu abruptly canceled all its flights in the South Pacific in May, leaving numerous tourists and locals stranded.

Canada Jetlines, headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, endured a lengthy fundraising process and government approval before launching its first flight in September 2022.

Despite its initial ambitions to cater to Canadian travelers heading to the U.S. and the Caribbean, the airline needed help maintaining operations. On August 15, Canada Jetlines announced it was halting all flights due to an inability to secure sufficient capital, having previously explored various financial strategies, including debt and equity financing and strategic transactions.

The airline’s future now hinges on a potential last-minute investment or drastic changes, with the company seeking creditor protection in hopes of restarting operations.

“The company pursued all available financing alternatives, including strategic transactions and equity and debt financings,” said spokesperson Erica Dymond in a statement. “Unfortunately, despite these efforts, the company has been unable to obtain the financing required to continue operations at this time.”

The airline, needing more funds for direct refunds, advised passengers to contact their credit card companies with canceled flights. Among the affected routes were connections between Toronto and popular destinations such as Jamaica’s Montego Bay, Mexico’s Cancun, and Florida’s Orlando.

Similarly, Lynx Air, another low-cost Canadian carrier, filed for bankruptcy protection in February 2024, citing high operating and fuel costs, alongside stiff competition from industry giants Air Canada and WestJet Airlines.

Canada’s 38.9 million residents frequently rely on U.S.-based carriers like United Airlines and Delta for flights to destinations such as Florida.

“Whenever a new player enters the market, one thing is certain: they’re going to be losing money for at least the first eight to ten months, possibly even longer,” said Jacques Roy, a professor of transport management at HEC Montreal, in an interview with Global News. “A strong financial foundation is crucial.”

The recent turmoil in the airline industry, marked by several carriers’ shutdowns and financial struggles, could have significant implications for travelers planning visits to Walt Disney World Resort. With airlines like Canada Jetlines and Lynx Air halting operations, many guests, particularly those from Canada, may need help securing flights to Orlando, a key gateway to the popular resort.

Guests planning trips to Walt Disney World should proactively review their travel arrangements , especially if they were booked on one of the affected airlines. Those with canceled flights are advised to contact their credit card companies for potential refunds, as the airlines themselves may not be able to issue reimbursements due to their financial situations.

Additionally, travelers might need to explore alternative carriers, such as United Airlines or Delta, which continue to operate flights to Orlando.

To mitigate potential disruptions , guests should consider booking flights as early as possible and monitor travel advisories or airline updates. Flexibility with travel dates and times could also provide more options for securing alternative flights. Rescheduling or adjusting vacation plans may be necessary for those impacted by the sudden changes to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to Walt Disney World Resort.

Despite the recent airline disruptions affecting some Walt Disney World guests, proper planning can help ensure that upcoming vacations remain on track. By securing alternative flights early, monitoring travel updates, and being flexible with travel dates, guests can navigate the changes without significantly impacting their plans.

While the airline situation may cause initial concern, those who proactively adjust their travel arrangements should still be able to enjoy their Disney vacation without significant disruptions.

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Moscow Travel Guide

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Why travel to Moscow

Contrasts: 12th century monasteries and some of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe can be found side-by-side in this complex and captivating city. The diversity of this mega-city is astounding. Only a few steps away from the solemn red facade of the Kremlin and the sounds of righteous church bells, a buzzing night scene and alternative-fashion boutiques can be found.

Culture: In Moscow only the best goes. Be it a theatre, restaurant or gallery, the standards are certain to be world-class. The Bolshoi ballet company is reputed to be even better than the Mariinsky’s and “MMOMA” (Moscow’s museum of modern art) exhibits works of art as profound as any that could be found in the famed MOMA.

Convenience: Unlike the rest of Russia, it’s easy enough to get by with just English in Moscow and, driving excepted, it is surprisingly safe: the murder rate is lower than in some of America’s major cities.

Top Sights in Moscow

St. Basil’s

Novodevichy Convent

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• Moscow Fact File
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Why visit Moscow

It would take more than two days to walk around the perimeter of the biggest city in Europe, Moscow. Many of its inhabitants barely know what’s beyond the few blocks around their flat and there are so many attractions that it’s almost impossible to know where to start. If there is such a thing as an antidote to boredom, Moscow City is it. The mind-boggling range and diversity of things to do, places to eat, parks, historical monuments and more means that a vacation in Moscow has a wealth of activities to offer for every type of traveler, from young families to retirees.

Reasons to Vacation in Moscow in 2022

The Bolshoi theatre is familiar to almost everyone as Russia’s grandest theatre, but what people don’t know is that there are many more bolshoi (big) sites in Moscow that are worth travelling all the way to Moscow to see. For more than 100 years, the world’s biggest bell has been hidden behind the Kremlin’s walls and inside Moscow’s main park (which is bigger than some countries!) there is the world’s largest outdoor ice-rink. Travelers that visit Moscow can stay at the Izmailovo, Europe’s biggest hotel, then eat at the largest and most historic McDonald’s in Europe and after that have fun at the largest European indoor theme park!

Ancient Past & Stunning Architecture:

As those who travel to Moscow will see, just because Moscow is a city of record-breaking, glitzy high-rises doesn’t mean that there is no history. On the famous Arbat street, time-worn, wooden storehouses and century-old churches are squashed up against grey, soviet blocks which are then towered over by 21st century office-blocks. Unlike its much younger sibling, St Petersburg, Moscow’s roots stretch way back to the 12th century. Within the walls of the Kremlin, the city’s oldest building the Cathedral of Assumption can be admired in all its 500+ years of age.

Culture & Convenience

For a foreigner who has never visited Russia, Moscow is the perfect stepping stone into this great land of mystery. From the country’s best classical ballet troupes to snow-white troikas trotting through the parks, all the highlights of Russian culture can be had in Moscow without any of the complications that would be expected in other, less developed regions of Russia.

Cheap as Caviar

In Moscow, everything is bargain when with the current foreign exchange rates being what they are. Even caviar doesn’t seem so dear when the exchange rate is at 60rub to the dollar, so go on indulge yourself! Take your 2022 vacation in Moscow and have the best of both worlds, with European luxury at very affordable prices.

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

We had a great time both in Moscow and St Petersburg. Your travel agency was excellent in coordinating the whole trip. Everything worked like clockwork. The guides assigned to us were very nice and friendly. They had a great knowledge of their subjects. The cars and the drivers were great. The hotels were good and the itinerary was good. All in all, it was a wonderful experience. It was nice dealing with you and your company. Thank you very much for a great Russian experience. Have a great future ahead

• 31 reviews of Express to Russia Moscow Tours in Moscow

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WestJet Group completes acquisition of Sunwing

The WestJet Group today announced that it has completed its acquisition of Sunwing Vacations and Sunwing Airlines. The transaction, originally announced in March 2022, combines the two Canadian aviation and leisure travel success stories, and will bring greater choice, competitive airfares and increased direct access to sun destinations to Canadian travellers. In addition, it positions Sunwing to continue its growth across Canada and permits the newly merged company to protect jobs.

Initially, the airlines will continue independent operations, maintaining a sharp focus on providing an exceptional guest experience and ensuring safe operations. As the two entities transition from competitors to collaborators, the combination of these businesses will be planned in a way that positions Sunwing as an instrumental pillar of the WestJet Group, and prioritizes the experience of a growing number of guests.

“As we have set out on our new strategic trajectory for the WestJet Group, investing further in leisure and sun flying across Canada is a critical driver for growth,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of the WestJet Group. “It brings me great pleasure to welcome Sunwing to the group, adding 18 Boeing 737s, 2,000 employees and Canada’s largest vacation tour operator and significantly expanding our footprint in Eastern Canada. Together, we will strategically enhance our sun and leisure offerings to bring even more affordable and accessible travel opportunities to Canadians.”  

Stephen Hunter, formerly the CEO of Sunwing Vacations, has been appointed CEO of the WestJet Group’s Vacations Business, responsible for all tour operating and vacation package businesses of both the Sunwing Vacations and WestJet Vacations brands.

“The combination of our complementary businesses marks an important milestone that will enable us to fast-track our growth plans and provide Canadians with more affordable vacations to more destinations than ever before,” said Stephen Hunter, CEO of the WestJet Group’s Vacations Business. “I am thrilled to join forces with WestJet and, in doing so, create even more opportunities for our people and deliver greater value for Canadian travellers.”

As previously announced, the WestJet Group’s newly combined tour operator businesses, comprised of WestJet Vacations and Sunwing Vacations, will be headquartered in Toronto, Ontario and will continue to operate a Montreal office. In the coming years, the Vacations Business expects to facilitate new flying and new employment opportunities by retaining Sunwing’s aircraft in Canada year-round, among other sources of anticipated growth. 

“We are excited to welcome Sunwing’s employees to the WestJet Group of Companies; throughout the planning of this transaction, we have been continually impressed by their expertise and experience in the vacations industry,” concluded von Hoensbroech.” We look forward to working alongside them to deliver memorable services to an expanding number of Canadians.” 

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