Aussie! Aussie! Aussie!
It’s a catchcry we’ll be hearing plenty of over the next few weeks when the Summer Olympics gets underway in Paris on the 26th of July.
It’s an exciting opportunity for Australians to celebrate our team in the green and gold, and this year sees the introduction of breakdancing as an Olympic sport, which will definitely be fun to watch!
While most of us will be glued to our TV sets for the Games, plenty of eager fans will be heading over to Paris to be part of the live action.
If that sounds like you, be sure to have travel insurance in place before you fly out. It can prevent a dream trip becoming a financial nightmare.
Is France safe?
France has a well-deserved reputation for gourmet delights, famous sights, and a wealth of history.
So, it can be surprising to learn that the Smartraveller website recommends exercising “a high degree of caution” while visiting France, noting that the country’s national terrorist alert remains at “the highest level”1.
Smartraveller says theft and petty crime are common in Paris. Visitors can help protect themselves against light-fingered crooks by staying alert, carrying belongings in a theft-proof bag, and using a money belt for cash, cards and ID2.
Remember too, while the mercury is falling in Australia, Paris is enjoying high summer. So, it’s a good idea to wear plenty of sunscreen and stay hydrated to avoid heat-related health issues.
Most importantly Smartraveller advises having travel insurance, adding, “Make sure it covers everything you plan to do.”
Why insure your trip?
For most Aussies, an overseas holiday – be it to the Olympics or another destination, will run smoothly.
But when things do go wrong, the cost can quickly escalate.
Lost luggage, illness or injury or even hiccups with accommodation (a bedbug infestation saw some Parisian hotels close temporarily in 20233) all have the potential to leave you out of pocket.
The good news is that travel insurance can be a very small part of your overall vacation budget. And it is a must-have.
Defence Bank makes arranging travel cover easy.
Through our relationship with CGU Insurance, we have partnered with Cover-More to help our members access travel insurance. And it can all be done online in just a few keystrokes.
Before you go, other things to know.
When traveling around Paris, it’s a good idea to have some local currency on hand. And with the removal of our overseas ATM cash withdrawal fee*, we’ve made accessing cash easier than ever when you use your Defence Bank Visa debit card at an international ATM.
And lastly, before you go, log in to the Defence Bank app and share with us your travel plans. This way we’ll know it’s you using your Defence Bank debit card and credit card overseas – and not a scammer.
To find out more about arranging travel insurance, or any of our products and services, reach out to our Contact Centre on 1800 033 139 or visit your local branch.
1. https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/france?
2. https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/major-events/sporting-events/paris-2024-olympics
3. https://www.comparethemarket.com.au/news/warning-to-travellers-heading-over-to-paris-for-the-summer-olympics/
*Overseas ATM operators may charge their own fees. 3% foreign currency conversion fee will apply.
Important note: This information is of a general nature and is not intended to be relied on by you as advice in any particular matter. You should contact us at Defence Bank to discuss how this information may apply to your circumstances.
