Educational Tours, Inc. is monitoring the Coronavirus *(COVID-19) situation that is currently impacting our world.
We are disheartened by what is happening in the world with the COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic. Our hearts go out to those who have had to make the decision to cancel their trips. So many students have worked months and months to earn the funds to participate in this exciting event, and we feel your disappointment.
We are fielding many calls in our office from parents inquiring about refunds for their child’s cancelled trip. Please know that we are your advocate. We are working with our vendor partners, who are also in the midst of this pandemic, to request refunds. They are fielding requests like ours from Tour Operators around the world. This is a completely unprecedented situation for us as a company and industry. We ask for your patience as this will take a great deal of time to resolve (estimate of 8 weeks for refunds).
We are in contact with your school and group leader and providing them with information when it is available. Please know that we are working on your behalf. We ask that parents do not contact us but obtain all information from your school’s group leader.
In hopes of answering some of your questions, please click here to review our FAQ.
We recommend that you follow these guidelines provided on the CDC’s website regarding the Prevention of Coronavirus while on your trip as well as at home:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
- CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
- Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
For information about handwashing, see CDC’s Handwashing website.
For information specific to healthcare, see CDC’s Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings.
These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.
Our company is very involved with SYTA (Student & Youth Travel Association). They, too, have a link that can assist with information. Click here to access.
