Covid-19 protocols
Last updated 15th August 2021.
What to expect and how we will be keeping you safe next summer
As we head towards the end of the calendar year, our attention is firmly focused on ensuring we have done everything possible to make your travel safe and enjoyable in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic. To help inform and reassure you about what to expect from your expedition next summer, we’ve answered a few of your questions below:
What will the travel experience be like?
Without a doubt, the airport and flying experience will be different next year. The UK government is currently requiring passengers on all public transport (including flights), to wear face masks. You can also expect to be required to wear a face mask in airport terminal buildings and at the boarding gate. In summary, you should be prepared to wear a mask or face covering at all points of your journey.
Many airlines have changed their onboard service, in particular, offering limited catering; we, therefore, recommend you stock up after you go through security and before you board with any drinks and snacks you may require.
For specific information about how the airlines we use are adapting to flying in the 'new normal', including how they are cleaning aircrafts, please refer to their dedicated webpages. This will also be discussed in detail at the final parents evening.
There may be different procedures on arrival at your destination airport and accommodation, where required by local governments. We will advise you of particular procedures at your chosen destination as and when they are communicated to us. For example, all flights from Gatwick airport are currently departing from the North Terminal only. Passengers arriving by train can take the free shuttle to the North Terminal and those arriving by car will find the multi-storey car parks open. The long-stay car parks at Gatwick are closed and anyone arriving at the South Terminal car parks in error will be able to take a ticket and redirect to the North Terminal. Although the South Terminal is not in use for passengers, the Boots pharmacy in the Arrivals Hall remains open and accessible. (Boots in the North Terminal does not have a pharmacy.)
What will you do to ensure my accommodation is safe?
Adventure Lifesigns has always demanded the highest standard of safety from our partners and project sites. In line with recommendations from the World Health Organisation, together with the UK and local governments, we have developed an enhanced cleaning plan specifically to combat the transmission of viruses. We are working with all our partners and projects to ensure they are briefed on this plan and agree to it, and regular auditing will be undertaken by our in-country agents. Specifically, cleaners will be paying extra attention to cleaning ‘high touch’ areas in the accommodation. These include light switches, bathroom and kitchen surfaces and handrails. Cleaners will be asked to use hypochlorite solution (or similar) to thoroughly disinfect the accommodation before occupation by each party. Cleaners themselves will follow strict protocols following social distancing rules when working in teams.
Are there any other changes I should know about?
To minimise any risks, our in-country agents will be taking a ‘socially distanced’ approach to looking after you next summer and will typically be conducting welcome meetings by video or voice call where possible. They will be available by WhatsApp, email, text or phone to assist you throughout your expedition and are very much looking forward to seeing you - virtually, if not in person.
What happens if there is an outbreak of COVID-19 whilst I am overseas?
Our in-country agents and local partners have been fully briefed on the processes and procedures necessary should there be an outbreak, or suspected outbreak, of COVID-19 whilst you are in-country. The response will vary depending on whether you are staying in a building, with just your own team, or in a hotel or complex with other guests. Should you, or anyone in your team come down with any symptoms of COVID-19, please inform your Expedition Leader immediately and they will advise you of the next steps. As always, our dedicated operations team are there to ensure your welfare and are ready and happy to communicate on your behalf with local health professionals and authorities.
Am I insured against COVID-19?
As things currently stand, you are insured for COVID-19 related claims. Our yearly renewal has just been completed and is currently still covering COVID-19 related issues. Alongside our current travel insurance, we are also putting in place several other COVID-19 specific insurances for your piece of mind. These will be communicated to teams once they have been confirmed.
Will I have to have a COVID-19 inoculation?
Our policy is in line with the current UK Government policy, in that we will not require anyone to have any inoculation they are not comfortable with. Nearer to departure, we should have a clearer view on how other country's are treating this issue and will be able to advice accordingly.
