This is where I believe my "professional bias" is most evident. Having worked for many years in the insurance sector, there is one rule I never break: never travel without travel insurance that also covers medical expenses in the destination country.

We always hope that vacation is synonymous only with fun and carefreeness, but unforeseen events can happen, and in order to remain carefree, it is better to be prepared.

Travel insurance policies usually cover reimbursement for lost luggage and medical expenses in case of an accident or emergency. This point is crucial: in many developing countries you don't want to find yourself in just any hospital, but prefer to turn to more specialized international clinics, where there are fewer language barriers and higher hygiene standards. The problem? These facilities are extremely expensive, often even more so than in Europe. Let me give you an example: in Cambodia, I had to have an MRI that alone cost €600! Fortunately, my insurance covered everything.

If you don't know which to choose, the more classic companies like Allianz or Europ Assistance will suffice: the premiums for trips of a few weeks are often negligible, almost never above €100 per person. Just be careful if you have pre-existing medical conditions, such as chronic illnesses or conditions requiring ongoing medication: not all insurance covers these types of emergencies, but Europ Assistance, for example, offers packages that include these cases.

If you have any doubts or want more practical advice, feel free to write to me: I will be happy to share my experience!