Volcanic Ash Clouds et al…

How do things stand?

Authorities and airlines have found ways for flights to operate at higher densities of ash but some uncertainty remains. The changes should lead to far less disruption to travellers but there is still a risk that travel plans could be disrupted.

So why book a packaged holiday with Explore?

• Your money and your flight-inclusive holiday package are fully protected under European Package Travel Regulations (1992) if you book through Explore, a reputable tour operator.
• If you book the flight and accommodation (or any other service) separately, you will not be covered – it’s as simple as that.

Book with Explore for confidence

• We will look after you - whether the ash disrupts your holiday while you are still at home, or whether you are travelling with us at the time.
• We will ensure you don’t lose money – if your holiday is cancelled prior to travel due to volcanic ash, or if you are unable to reach the start point of the tour.
• We will provide accommodation for you – if you are stuck overseas due to volcanic ash, whilst travelling as part of a flight-inclusive Explore holiday.

Exactly how will Explore look after you?

If you are still at home:

• We will keep you informed of the latest situation by phone and email
• If your holiday has to be cancelled we will give you the following options:

1. Transfer onto a later departure of the same tour

2. Transfer onto a different tour

3. Accept a full refund of all monies paid or a credit note.

If you are overseas, and are delayed in returning to the UK due to volcanic ash:

• We will liaise and work with our tour leaders, ground agents, airlines and other local representatives to ensure you are kept fully informed of the latest situation
• We will ensure you are returned to the UK as soon as reasonably possible
• We will investigate alternative modes of transport for returning you home and offer you alternatives - if they are financially viable
• If the delay means staying overnight we will provide accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis in Explore style accommodation, or a suitable alternative.

What if I book on a Land Only basis?

• If you are unable to join the starting point of the tour – we will allow you to cancel and provide you with the same 3 options mentioned above.
• If the rest of the group are unable to get to the start point of the tour, but you have been able to make it – we will aim to operate the tour for you and other Land-Only customers - although retain the right to cancel if it is not financially viable. In this case you would receive a full refund of all monies paid to Explore.
• If the tour operates – and the volcanic ash affects UK airspace whilst you are overseas, although you will be expected to pay for any additional services you might need we will do everything to help you secure accommodation or other services.