COVID-19 Updates
Traveling with Holbrook during COVID-19
September 8, 2021
Dear Holbrook Travel community,
For over 45 years, we have endured many turbulent times in travel by putting our travelers first. Safety and security are imbedded in our core principles, and during the challenges brought on by the pandemic, our commitment to you remains firm.
To prepare for the new realities of travel, our team is working carefully to ensure safety protocols are in place across all aspects of operation. Together with our in-country field partners, we continue to follow guidelines provided by the U.S. Department of State, the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and authorities within our destinations for updates and direction.
Below are the steps we are taking to provide confidence for our travelers to move forward with making plans at this time. We continue to respond and enhance these measures as public health recommendations evolve.
1. Flexible booking terms
Registrations made for travel between now and March 31, 2022 are fully refundable with no cancellation penalties until the final payment deadline. Exceptions to this policy for a few programs will be noted on the individual trip web page under pricing details.
2. Smaller groups
We have always operated small group travel for reasons of impact and community engagement. Now, on most programs, we are planning average group sizes of 10-14 travelers, with a maximum of 16. If requested, we can limit the size below 10.
3. Enhanced health & safety protocols
Safety and security have always been our top priority, and now we are providing additional cleaning, monitoring, and physical distancing measures on all our programs. In each destination, we are following extensive cleaning and sanitation protocols. Learn more about our Enhanced Health & Safety Protocols. Please note that each country has its own Covid-19 safety protocols for entry and travel within the country. Your Holbrook representative will have this information for you.
4. Vaccination Policy
For the peace of mind and protection for participants and our in-country teams, Holbrook Travel is requiring that all participants be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to their program. Minors not eligible for vaccinations are required to have a negative Covid-19 test within 96 hours of travel. Travelers must carry proof of vaccination during their program.
5. COVID-19 Testing Policy
While vaccines are highly effective against COVID-19, the Delta variant causes more infections and spreads faster than earlier forms of the virus. As a result, when testing is not required by a destination, Holbrook is requiring proof of a negative test result taken 3 days prior to the group departure date. The test must be a viral test (either RT-PCR or Rapid Antigen). Participants will be given instructions prior to departure for how to submit their negative test result directly to Holbrook. If you are unable to present your negative COVID-19 test result, you will not be allowed to join the program, you will not be allowed to join the program, and your enrollment will be canceled without refund. We strongly recommend the purchase of Trip Cancellation insurance, which provides financial protection in the event you test positive either before or while returning.
6. Itinerary adjustments to avoid high-touristed areas
Most of our programs do not focus their time in large cities. On the days where we do visit high-traffic areas, we are adjusting the program, either by going at off-peak hours or visiting an alternative location.
7. Dining protocols
We are working with our suppliers and restaurants to follow safety protocols, including extra room at tables or private seating. All food preparation follows strict protocols, including mask usage.
8. Single-friendly policy
We have increased the number of single rooms available and lowered fees wherever possible.
9. Independent and private groups
We have increased our offerings for those who wish to travel in a private group with family or friends. Additionally, we have extended the final payment deadline on most of these programs to 45 days before departure (not including cruise programs). Please refer to your contract terms for details.
10. Our team is here to help you prepare
As always, our experienced professionals are here to provide advice and answer any questions as you prepare for your program. Please don’t hesitate to contact your Holbrook Travel service team, as they are in constant communication with ground staff and stay up to date on local restrictions and regulations.