Coronavirus (Covid-19)
With concerns over the worldwide spread of Coronavirus (Covid-19) causing anxiety we would like to reassure you that we are monitoring the situation closely, following latest advice and information from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the World Health Organisation. Media reports can be alarming and although there is currently FCO travel advice in place relating to Italy and Spain, we continue to look forward to welcoming guests to sunnier climes later in the spring. However, should the situation change and restrictions affecting Simpson Travel clients be imposed, we will act swiftly to ensure their interests are protected.
A message from Graham Simpson
Over the course of my career I have, on occasion, been required to navigate a steady course through some choppy waters - negotiating global recession, military action, ash clouds and Brexit. However, the recent outbreak of Covid-19 is unprecedented in terms of its effect on tourism and the travel industry and in these worrying and unsettling times I wanted to communicate with you directly.
Firstly, I would like to reassure you that we are taking the situation extremely seriously and the welfare of our clients is, and will remain, our top priority. We will continue to follow advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and our ATOL and ABTA bonding means that any holiday booked with us is fully protected in the event that government restrictions are in place to your destination at the time of travel. I understand that the level of uncertainty involved causes a great deal of stress and anxiety and for this reason we have decided to contact affected clients in departure date order within 28 days of their holiday, to start discussing the options available if any restriction impacts on their travel arrangements.
I know how devastating the thought of a change or cancellation can be when much needed and longed for time has been put aside for a holiday with friends and loved ones. I sincerely hope that for the majority of our clients it will not come to this and in 2020, as always, we will do everything we can to ensure your Simpson Travel experience is everything you are hoping for and more.
For those of you who have already booked, please bear with us over the coming weeks as the picture becomes clearer. We will post regular updates on the FAQs page of our website and keep you fully informed of any developments should the need arise. For those of you yet to book, I hope this communication will go some way to reassuring you that we are ready and prepared to protect your interests in these extraordinary times and that you will trust us to provide your 2020 holiday, despite the climate of uncertainty.
My friends and colleagues overseas, many of whom are already enjoying the sunshine that has been so lacking in the UK of late, are looking forward to welcoming guests over the coming months and are optimistic that measures to limit the spread of the Covid-19 virus will be effective. The local communities we choose to invest in, both emotionally and financially, are one of the reasons our destinations enjoy such a devoted following. They are relying on us at this difficult time and I hope that as the situation starts to improve, Simpson Travel’s reputation for exceptional customer service will inspire the sort of confidence necessary to minimise the impact of the current crisis. The loyalty of our clients is the best compliment I could wish for and I would like to express my enormous gratitude and thanks for your continued support. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact a member of the Simpson team.
With my best wishes,
Graham Simpson
Founder, Simpson Travel
