Imagine, if you will, that you suffer a serious medical problem at home. A heart attack, perhaps, or maybe a broken bone. Obviously, you would call an ambulance, who would take you to the hospital where you would be treated, then possibly discharged with a prescription for medication. Now, of course, apart from the prescription, you wouldn’t expect to have to pay for it, would you? After all, that’s why we pay our taxes into the NHS.
Now imagine the same thing happens while you’re on holiday in Goa, where you don’t pay for a national health service, and as a result, are expected to pay for any medical treatment you need. Having to be evacuated from India can cost thousands, and quite often you can cover yourself for as little as £25 a week.
True enough, some countries operate a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, but unfortunately India is not one of them, which means you would be expected to pay for all of your treatment while in India – including the trip in the ambulance!
Goa is a fantastic place to visit, with its huge and varied cultural history – From it’s reputation in the 70s as a hippy magnet, to the years of Portuguese rule and influence, there is plenty to discover and see in the area, and if you go in the summer, the beautiful sunny climate will make every trip a pleasure.
Of course, travel insurance is a lot like any other type of insurance in that the range of prices offered for it varies hugely. Travelsupermarket.com says “UK holidaymakers pay £1.3bn more than they need to on travel insurance each year. This is despite the fact that travel insurance appears to be relatively cheap - normally around £25 for each week abroad.” This means that it’s in your best interest not to just accept the first quote you’re offered – Travelsupermarket.com compare hundreds of deals in moments for you, and can save you time, money and worry, getting you in the holiday spirit early!