We all realize that in the coming years, travel is going to look a bit different than anything we have previously experienced. Things feel uncertain right now, and we understand that. That is why we are providing the utmost flexibility, generous policies, and the promise that when you're ready, we will help you travel again. As the world collectively dusts itself off and starts looking over the horizon, here are the steps Encore is taking to ensure that groups have a positive, safe, and life-changing travel experience in the year ahead.
If 2021 plans are interrupted for any reason, you'll be covered by our Peace of Mind policy, which we've made even better than before. Up to 65 days before departure, you can move your overseas trip to a different travel date in 2021 or the equivalent date in 2022, all for the same price you originally paid. For needed changes closer to departure, we will always work with any group leader or administration to adapt itineraries in the interest of group safety.
Given the uncertainties that may exist around international travel in the year ahead, we are making an exception to our standard cancellation policies. We have extended our most generous cancellation/refund amounts that are usually in place until 130 days before departure, all the way until 65 days before departure.
We realize that participants who were originally slated to travel in 2020, and have opted to join their group leaders for a rescheduled trip in 2021, will also need some added certainty. That is why we have extended the enhanced cancellation policies we put in place for 2020 groups until 65 days before your 2021 travel date.
If you are interested in planning a trip for 2022, we are here for you. Given the new priorities around safety and flexibility in travel, we are adapting our approach to the performance touring experience. Our policies are designed to make you and your travelers feel confident about planning a trip.
We want you to travel, but more importantly, we want you to feel confident about your decision. We know things are constantly changing, and it's tough enough to predict what might happen tomorrow. That's why we are proud to offer our new worry-free guarantee to any new groups who sign up. Book your 2022 trip now and, if you need to cancel your tour for any reason before July 1, 2021, we will refund 100% of the money paid to Encore.
Our mission compels us to find ways to live fully and experience a world that is increasingly complex. To achieve this mission, we take every precaution to ensure that our groups are safe and secure while traveling with us. As we adapt to this unprecedented situation, we are reviewing additional measures to ensure the utmost safety for all of our travelers
We are carefully reviewing our protocols related to audience capacity, outdoor venue options, stage design, additional impromptu performances, physical distancing guidelines, and increased customization options.
Our Health & Safety Team is developing new protocols for tour managers to follow every day on tour.
We are building out plans for masks, hand sanitizers, temperature checks, and physical distancing.
We are reviewing plans with hotel, transportation and activity providers and adjusting itineraries where needed.
Our worldwide duty officer system operates around the clock to react instantly to concerns.
Included health protection provides immediate care and transportation to bring sick participants home or parents to sick participants if need be. Encore staff will be dispatched to the scene to assist in any way possible.
To guarantee the safest and most enjoyable experience possible, we have prioritized private dining opportunities and avoided booking crowded restaurants on all of our itineraries. Where you eat matters, so we will arrange for groups to dine at well-ventilated, open-air restaurants wherever possible.
Our new tour guide systems ensure that you and your group can enjoy every destination and venue. These lightweight devices deliver crystal clear audio quality and unrivaled range, allowing your group members to avoid large crowds and freely explore each stop on your tour.
Get your passengers excited to travel! As a safe alternative to in-person meetings, Encore will be hosting virtual recruitment sessions on Zoom. Your Tour Consultant and Tour Manager will organize the call, review your itinerary, explain pricing and deadlines, and answer any questions your passengers may have.
Rest assured that your deposits are safe. Encore, ACIS, and our parent company, AIFS, is a reliable and financially stable organization with over 50 years experience. Through the years, AIFS has accumulated over $200 million in assets. Nearly half of these assets are held in a combination of cash and high-quality, A-rated, fixed income securities. In addition, AIFS holds a $51 million general liability insurance policy with Lexington Insurance Company covering school districts and teachers.
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