Covid-19 and Performance Travel For the time being, travel is going to be a bit different than we have previously experienced. As the world collectively dusts itself off and starts looking over the horizon, here is what Encore is doing to ensure groups will have a positive, safe, and life-changing travel experience in the year ahead. Vaccination Policy Earlier this year, many destinations were either denying entry to unvaccinated visitors or introduced vaccination requirements in order to move freely within the country. Given these restrictions, all group leaders and travelers need to be fully vaccinated in order to travel with us in 2022. You are responsible for arranging for your vaccination to meet local requirements and should be prepared to provide suitable documentation of it throughout your tour. Encore does not have a vaccine mandate for 2023, however, group leaders and travelers must still follow the health and safety-related entry requirements for the countries they will visit. Each individual traveler is responsible for meeting these requirements. Travelers should also be on the lookout for common symptoms of COVID in the days leading up to their trip and should not travel if these symptoms exist. Additional Safety Measures At Encore Tours, we prioritize your safety and aim to ensure an enjoyable experience for all. We carefully review performance protocols, enforce on-tour protection measures in line with local regulations, collaborate closely with partners, offer 24/7 coverage, and provide comprehensive medical insurance for all participants. Take a look at all of the steps Encore is taking to maintain your health and safety on tour. Performance Protocols We are carefully reviewing protocols related to audience capacity, outdoor venue options, stage design, additional impromptu performances, physical distancing guidelines, and increased customization options. We will also continue to abide by the rules and regulations put in place by the host country. Tour Manager Protocols All tour managers (and bus drivers) are fully vaccinated and are being updated with new procedures to maximize health on tour. On-Tour Protection We will adhere to the use of face masks, hand sanitizer (which we will provide) and physical distancing on all our tours. Coordinating with Partners We are reviewing plans with hotel, transportation and activity providers and adjusting itineraries where needed. 24/7 Coverage Our worldwide duty officer system operates around the clock to react instantly to concerns. Handling Illness on Tour All Encore participants are enrolled in an international medical insurance plan that will provide needed care should someone fall ill. Things feel uncertain right now; we get it. That’s why we’re providing the utmost flexibility, generous policies and the promise that we will do everything possible to help you and your participants feel confident to travel again. Peace of Mind Plan Encore’s 2022 Peace of Mind policy allows group leaders, at any point up to 45 days before departure, to move their same itinerary to any other travel date in 2022 or to the same travel season in 2023 for no change in cost. Our 2023 Peace of Mind policy allows for those same changes up to 60 days before departure. Cancellation Protection Encore now offers two upgraded protection plans that allow participants to cancel for any reason and receive a full refund either in cash or in a combination of cash and a travel voucher. Participants may elect to upgrade their protection coverage up to 130 days prior to departure. Protection Plans Leave the Logistics to Us With our overseas partners, Encore will stay abreast of all current travel rules and regulations and communicate the guidelines to groups when appropriate. Encore will also ensure that all travelers have the necessary overseas medical coverage to meet any special travel requirements put in place by local governments. Financial Security Encore Tours, 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. Have any additional questions? Please contact us or utilize the live chat function to speak directly with an Encore Tours representative. Contact Us