This is the job I've always wanted to do. I really enjoy helping people plan their dream vacations. I love to see their pictures and hear about their vacations. I am not complaining about trip cancellations or people looking for their refunds that aren't being processed in a timely manner. This situation is not easy for anyone. If you have a travel agent, send him/her a nice message. It's not been easy for them.
Today, I cancelled four Baltic cruises. These friends were excited about their trip, planned it for over a year but a couple of months ago pretty well knew it wouldn't happen.
Cruise lines are overwhelmed with cancellations and refunds. Most cruise line employees are working from home and processing cancellations/refunds in the order received. One cruise line says refunds are taking at least 60 days.
Travel as we know it will change. Everyone will have to wear a mask on an aircraft in Canada. I also hear the middle seat isn't being used on some aircraft. Both great ideas but how can airlines survive if they can't "cram" passengers in? Will the buffet's still be allowed on cruise ships? Will anyone ever book an inside cabin on a cruise ship and how many people will continue to cruise? Will 48 passenger coach tours continue?
On April 9th the CDC renewed a no sail order for all cruise ships for at least 100 days. Canada has closed their ports until July 1st and many other countries have closed their ports. The cruise lines are not cancelling cruises quickly. Yesterday, Royal Caribbean, Azamara and Celebrity cruises cancelled all cruises up to June 11th. Cunard is still taking reservations for Alaska cruises on June 2 and we know Alaska cruises will not sail out of Canada Place until after July 1st and even that date could be extended. Princess have cancelled all cruise tours to Alaska for the entire summer. Holland America have cancelled most Alaska sailings, but the Konsingsdam is scheduled to sail out of Vancouver on July 4th doing a seven day return trip.
We will have to wait and see what will happen in the travel industry. Travel is a privilege and I'm happy I have been able to enjoy travel throughout the years. Let's hope the industry comes back soon. I have lots of plans but I'm not ready to make any reservations.
To set the record straight, I've had people inquire as to where their refunds are and no one has yelled at me. I don't blame them, I'd be wanting to get my refund too!
