STA travel insurance (STA Travel Insurance)

Member Name: clairedooyoo

Product:	STA Travel Insurance
Date:	28/08/09 (158 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: helpful, friendly and good value for money

Disadvantages: adds money to your trip

STA is a very well known travel agent among young people wanting to travel the world. Although I didn't book my trip with them, I did take out their worldwide premium cover (blue standard cover) for 5 months costing £187 inc VAT.

You may think that this is expensive for travel insurance, and indeed there are cheaper companies available but am so pleased I paid the extra for a company that are well known for not having any hidden clauses.

During my trip away I unfortunately had to visit a hospital twice. The first time in Thailand I was hospitalised for two nights. The hospital was brilliant, but as soon as I was put in a room they wanted my credit card details. My sister called STA who instructed us not to give them any details as they would sort it directly with them. This is exactly what happened, I didn't have to deal with any funds until I was discharged then just had to pay my £50 excess directly to the hospital. It was a very smooth process. An extra thing to remember is that whoever is with you at the hospital is entitled to meals there that the insurance will cover.

The 2nd time, I needed an x-ray on my ankle in Vietnam, we phoned STA and they gave us the details the details of the best hospital in out area. After I had been treated the hospital demanded that I pay them then claim it back from the insurance company. When we spoke to STA they were extremely helpful saying that we shouldn't hand over any money, they spoke directly to the hospital and after some negotiating eventually the hospital agreed, again I just paid my £50 excess! STA also gave me advice such as to get a 'fit to fly certificate' as I had mentioned I was flying in the next few days. I also had a call a few days later asking if I was ok and if there was anything else they could do for me to ensure I was comfortable on my travels.

Overall I was extremely impressed with the service I received and will most definitely use them for any other trip I take.

Summary: I will never leave the country again without STA insurance