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MWR Life Unveils New Travel Advantage™ Platform

• MWR Life Unveils New Travel…

MWR Life continues to enhance its proprietary Travel Advantage™ membership and booking platform.

In April 2020, they unveiled an entirely new redesign that included a beautiful user interface, multiple enhancements, and unique member benefits. This redesign includes enhanced hotel details, photos, and descriptions, improved car rental selection, cruise booking enhancements, and more.

A significant benefit for Travel Advantage™ members are the Loyalty Points they earn every month that equal the cost of their membership. These Loyalty Points can reduce the price of their fully curated Life Experiences® or ultimately pay for their New Local Experiences™.

“With the recent restrictions made on travel, we wanted to give members more ways to get value from their membership. So we created Local Experiences™ that allows members to enjoy locations closer to home. Our members love this new benefit as some of these locations sold out the same day they are released. An impressive feat considering the current world situation.”

Said Senior Vice President Kevin Albright.

The most exciting new benefit is the Lifestyle Mall, which brings incredible added value to the membership . Now members can shop thousands of designer brands like Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Michael Kors, and many more at discounted prices. Members can save hundreds of dollars compared to retail sites and apply their Loyalty Points and Travel Credits at checkout for even more savings.

Members love this added benefit. In the first few weeks, MWR Life has received thousands of orders from members around the world. The Lifestyle Mall is an additional value that aligns perfectly with MWR Life’s goal of improving the lifestyles of its members.

“The benefit of owning and developing the Travel Advantage™ platform provides the company with many advantages to add value. It is becoming more and more evident that we are on the right track as we recently reached 100,000 members, and despite what has happened in the travel industry, enrollments are at an all-time high. But we are not stopping here. We have many more great features and benefits in development.”

Said CEO and Founder, Yoni Ashurov.

It is evident in their continued growth that members, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders are attracted to and embracing MWR Life’s vision of “Making Wishes Real Life.”

Author:  yoni

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About Travel Advantage

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The Travel Advantage platform is your best companion for an exceptional travel experience. "Travel Advantage" is an all-in-one platform designed to simplify and enhance every aspect of your journey by offering a comprehensive range of features for the modern traveler.

Simplified Booking

"Travel Advantage" offers an intuitive and easy-to-use booking process, allowing you to easily book flights, hotels, and activities with just a few clicks.

Smart Exploration

Travel Advantage's advanced search engine uses cutting-edge algorithms to present optimized travel options based on your personal preferences, budget, and travel dates.

Exclusive Discounts

As a Travel Advantage member, you have access to exclusive offers and special discounts on flights, hotels, or activities.

Real-time Assistance

Travel Advantage's dedicated support team is available 24/7 to answer all your questions and assist you in case of issues during your journey.

Introducing the Travel Advantage Platform

Advantages for travelers, time saving.

Simplify the planning and booking process, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your journey.

Financial Savings

Enjoy exclusive rates and special discounts as a member, saving money on your travel expenses.

With centralized travel information management and real-time assistance, travel with confidence, knowing that we are there to support you at every step of the process.

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Travel Advantage 4+

Mwr life, llc, designed for iphone.

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Description.

The Travel Advantage™ app provides mobile access to our exclusive members only rates for travel. Instantly access millions of hotels, resorts, flights, cars, cruises, activities and more! Plus, you will get exclusive member pricing on thousands of designer brands in the Lifestyle Mall. Members also receive Travel Credits every time a booking or purchase is made that can be used toward future getaways. You may also share Guest Passes with friends and family and earn more Travel Credits when they save money. 
 Here are just a few of the features: • Access and manage your account information and membership. • View and manage past and upcoming reservations • Read real reviews from verified hotel guests • View your earned Travel Credits • Share Guest Passes with friends and family • Receive news and messages regarding exclusive Flash Deals • Access all member features and benefits The Travel Advantage™ app is all you need to search, book and plan the perfect holiday at exclusive member prices.

Version 4.4

Bug fixes and enhancements

Ratings and Reviews

Bery good app.

Fantastic app. A request for developers. Please emprove it for better use with voiceover for blind users.

Cliente depuis Février 2022

Je suis cliente de TRAVELADVANTAGE depuis Février 2022, j’ai fait plus de 15 réservations sur la plateforme, et j’ai économisé 5800 $. Je ne le regrette pas, que ce soit au niveau des économies, la réactivité du service client 24/7, le sérieux, l’engagement, la communauté, ou l'évolution... D'ailleurs je suis ouverte à partager le détail de mon expérience en privé, et c'est ce que je fais aussi à travers mes réseaux sociaux. ℹ️Infos et contact: @Ohana_Alegria (Youtube, Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin, Tiktok...)

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The developer, MWR Life, LLC , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

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Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

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What is Travel Advantage? ?

Introduction to Travel Advantage

Travel Advantage is a well-known and economical platform, with over 400,000 members spread across many countries. Its aim is to transform the travel and shopping industries.

Travel Advantage was created by MWR Life. MWR Life is known for :

• Created in 2013,
• A presence on 5 continents,
• Offices in Hong Kong, the USA, France, and the United Kingdom,
• Over 400,000 members worldwide,
• Revolutionizing the travel industry.

MWR Life and Travel Advantage are members of the ETOA (European Tourism Association), an organization dedicated to promoting an environment conducive to the long-term development of tourism in Europe.

Missions de MWR Life

The company is based on three main pillars :

The goal is to make travel affordable for more people, offering a multitude of options for traveling while saving money.

Travel Advantage offers an opportunity for interested individuals to become ambassadors of the platform, thereby allowing them to generate additional income.

Comment ça marche ?

To understand how Travel Advantage allows savings on travel, let's examine the traditional model and the Travel Advantage model.

In the traditional model, merchants use advertising (television, internet, etc.) to reach their customers. These marketing costs are reflected in higher prices for consumers, as companies seek to recoup these expenses.

The Travel Advantage model marks a new era. It aims to reduce intermediaries and does not rely on traditional advertising. Instead, ambassadors and members recommend the platform, allowing for competitive pricing without high margins.

Additionally, Travel Advantage opts for a monthly subscription model, avoiding markups on bookings. This model proves to be more beneficial for customers.

Just like Netflix offers unlimited movies or Spotify offers music, this subscription provides access to the Travel Advantage booking platform.

What is Travel Advantage concretely ?

Travel Advantage offers a unique booking experience, combining:

Private travel club

Which brings together members/clients with access to several services depending on their membership

Booking platform and exclusive services

Offering various travel-related services such as hotels, flights, car rentals, cruises, etc.

24/7 Multilingual Support

Exceptional customer service, constantly available via email, phone, chat, or WhatsApp

Solo, Family, or Group Travel

Whether traveling solo, with family, or in a group, the Travel Advantage platform has options for everyone

Exclusive Offers to Travel More

Enjoy exclusive offers to make your travels even more memorable and affordable

This platform is characterized by its versatility, offering a wide range of travel options, all accessible in one place

Here is an overview of the services offered by the platform:

A varied selection of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury establishments.

Flexible flight bookings, national and international, with a variety of airlines.

Convenient car rental service, suited for various travel needs.

Lifestyle Mall

Shopping center offering a premium and diverse shopping experience, like a duty free.

Luxurious cruise trips offering relaxation, entertainment, and exotic stopovers.

All-inclusive resort stays for relaxation, leisure, and outdoor activities.

Show Tickets

Access to a wide range of cultural or entertaining shows and events.

Reliable and comfortable transfers to airports, hotels, and key destinations.

Life Experiences®

Unique experiences organized by the platform.

Ground Transportation

Various ground transportation solutions (Train, Bus..), combining comfort and efficiency.

A wide range of recreational and adventure activities for all tastes.

Vacation Rentals

Selection of unique vacation properties for unforgettable stays.

Flash Deals

Exclusive promotions and limited offers for advantageous travel opportunities.

Avantages exclusifs

In addition to the varied services already presented, Travel Advantage offers its members a range of exclusive benefits, greatly enriching their travel experience

Travel Credits

With every booking made on our platform, you will accumulate travel credits, similar to miles, which can be used to reduce the cost of your future services

Loyalty Points

For Plus and Elite memberships, the amount paid is converted into loyalty points, which can be used to reduce the cost of services, within the limit set for each booking

Up to 5 Travelers

You also have the option to share your membership with other people of your choice, allowing them to independently enjoy the benefits of the platform

Member Reviews

Members of Travel Advantage express their satisfaction and contentment, as evidenced by our high ratings on Trustpilot, thus distinguishing ourselves from other travel platforms

The Different Memberships

The platform offers three types of membership (all without commitment), each with its own cost, providing access to a variety of exclusive services

Join the Travel Advantage Platform

To join the platform, follow these instructions:

Access the link

Click on this link to sign up for Travel Advantage .

Choose the right membership

Browse through the different membership options and select the one that suits your needs.

Fill in your information

Complete the registration form with your personal information, ensuring its accuracy.

Validate and confirm

Finalize your registration by validating your information.

7 Personal Benefits of Travel

Forget milling around in your finest evening wear, Singapore Sling in hand: You'll be lucky to get peanuts. Flying isn't quite the party it was in Sinatra's days, and lots of time, energy, and money are expended to leave home, so why travel? How long do the  personal benefits of travel last?

Getting away from home and stepping outside of your usual routine is beneficial for both mind and body. The long-lasting personal benefits of visiting a foreign country far outweigh the costs and time to get there.

The great travel writer Pico Lyer said: "Travel is not really about leaving our homes, but leaving our habits." Here are seven ways that travel, especially  international travel, will enhance your life.

Travel Sharpens the Mind

You've done your old routine for so many years that you could run through it on autopilot. Being dropped into a new environment engages a dormant part of your mind and gets those synapses firing again.

Suddenly, you'll be required to navigate unfamiliar places, read foreign languages , try new things, make quick decisions, and choose your new eating and sleeping schedule.

Unlike at home, all the new sights, sounds, and places will require mental processing and filing. Your brain will welcome the workout! Once you return home, you'll be sharper than ever for better organizing and sprucing up your daily routine.

A Shift in Perspective

"Nobody comes back from a journey the way they started it." — Unknown

Being exposed to new cultures and people will greatly shift your paradigm and create a healthier perspective once you return back home. Seeing different social classes creates compassion and really makes you feel more blessed and content. Large portions of the world's population have to deal with daily threats such as hunger, disease , and landmines .

A hard day at work suddenly doesn't seem so bad when you see people in developing countries toiling in sun-scorched fields from morning to dark, or begging for a drink of water.

A Chance to Try New Things

"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." — Ralph Waldo Emerson

While you may branch out at home from time to time by trying new restaurants or splurging on expenditures, traveling kicks you out of the comfort zone and forces you, for better or worse, to try new things!

Even if you don't enjoy your first attempt at scuba diving , at least you'll be able to relate in a new way the next time you see it in a movie or hear someone talking about it.

Becoming a well-rounded individual enhances self-confidence and will help you find new material for conversation in social settings with a wider variety of people.

Who knows, you may accidentally discover your new favorite food or find out that you want to pursue a new career in karaoke!

Meet New People

"A journey is best measured in friends, not in miles." — Tim Cahill

You'll meet far more friendly people on the road than you will under ordinary circumstances at home.

Other travelers are always looking to share experiences, give tips on places to go, and meet people from all over. Striking up a conversation with other travelers is extraordinarily easy.

A polite "so where are you from?" breaks the ice quite easily and may lead to lasting friendships with people from all over the world.

See the Real Deal

"To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries." — Aldous Huxley

Until you visit a place and form your own opinions, your understanding only comes from what you were taught in school, read in books, or saw on media, which may or may not be a complete truth.

Don't over-research your upcoming destination in guidebooks. Do your best to avoid building a bias toward a place or installing mental filters before you visit. Wait to form your own opinion, remaining objective until you can make up your own mind.

Exercise and Sunshine

Sure, you could just go sweat in the gym under fluorescent lighting, but chances are that you'll be much more active from day to day while on the road, regardless of whether your trip is an adventurous one or simply a relaxing beach trip .

You could be exploring new cities on foot, hiking , swimming, walking between places, and hopefully soaking up some needed sunshine while doing so. And it's guaranteed to smell better than the gym.

Come Home Renewed

After stepping away from home for a while, you'll return with renewed energy, a new set of mental filters, and ready to take on the next big project or challenge. Call it a life reboot.

Getting away for some time, even though it requires effort, will greatly enhance your attitude and productivity once you return home. Sure, you may have some mail piled up and matters to attend, but those are simple challenges easily knocked out.

Breaking up the monotony for a while is a great way to reduce stress and give your life an injection of excitement. Don't be surprised if shortly after your return, you're already counting down days until the next trip!

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Introduction to AXA Travel Insurance

• Coverage Options Offered by AXA
• AXA Assistance USA Cost

AXA Customer Service Reviews

Compare axa travel insurance.

• Why You Should Trust Us

AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance Review 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Travel insurance is important because it can help cover the cost of unexpected medical expenses while you're traveling. It can also reimburse you for lost or stolen baggage, canceled flights, and other unforeseeable problems that may occur while you're away from home.

Simply put, there's a lot to consider.

But not all policies are created equal, and you must understand what you're covered for before you purchase a policy. This article will look in-depth at AXA Assistance USA travel insurance. We'll discuss the costs, coverage limits, exclusions, and more to help you make an informed decision about whether or not this particular travel insurance provider is right for you.

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

AXA Assistance USA is among the best travel insurance companies . It covers the fundamentals of travel insurance, with coverage for trip cancellations, medical expenses, and emergency medical/non-medical evacuation. With three plans, AXA also offers coverage for travelers with various budgets.

It's worth noting that many important add-ons aren't available for AXA's cheapest Silver plan, such as pre-existing condition coverage, rental car add-ons, and Schengen travel insurance. Cancel for any reason coverage is also only available for AXA's most expensive Platinum plan. 

Coverage Options Offered by AXA 

AXA Assistance USA offers three levels of coverage: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each plan comes with different protections and varying coverage limits, with the Silver being the most basic option and Platinum offering the most premium coverage.

Some policies might even include added coverage free of charge, such as a waiver for pre-existing conditions , which is free for Gold and Platinum plans as long as you purchase your plan within 14 days of your trip deposit.

Specialized Coverage Options

The plan you purchase will determine which add-ons are available. For example, those with a Platinum plan can add CFAR (cancel for any reason) coverage , allowing you to receive a full refund if you cancel your trip within 14 days of making the initial deposit.

Or, if you want extra protection for your rental car, depending on your AXA plan, you might be able to add a collision damage waiver (CDW). Policyholders with Gold plans can add $35,000 CDW, and those with Platinum plans can include $50,000 CDW.

If you're traveling within the Schengen Territory, which is made up of 27 European countries, you may eligible for Schengen Travel Insurance, which covers you in all 27 countries. This option is only available for Gold and Platinum travelers and coverage lasts up to 90 days.

AXA Assistance USA Travel Insurance Cost

The premium you pay will depend on various factors, including the age of the travelers, destination, and total trip costs. The average cost of travel insurance is 4% to 8% of your travel costs.

After inputting some personal information, such as your age and state of residence, along with your trip details, like travel dates, destination, and trip costs, you'll get an instant quote for the plans available for your trip. And from there, it's easy to compare each option based on your coverage needs and budget.

Now let's look at a few examples to estimate AXA's coverage costs.

As of 2024, a 23-year-old from Illinois taking a week-long, $3,000 budget trip to Italy would have the following  AXA travel insurance quotes:

• AXA Silver: $83
• AXA Gold: $107
• AXA Platinum: $127

Premiums for AXA plans are between 2.7% and 4.2% of the trip's cost, well below the average cost of travel insurance. It's also relatively cheap compared to many of its competitors

AXA provides the following quotes for a 30-year-old traveler from California heading to Japan for two weeks on a $4,000 trip:

• AXA Silver: $109
• AXA Gold: $128
• AXA Platinum: $153

Once again, premiums forAXA plans are between 3.6% and 3.8%, below the average cost for travel insurance.

A 65-year-old couple looking to escape New York for Mexico for two weeks with a trip cost of $6,000 would have the following AXA quotes:

• AXA Silver: $392
• AXA Gold: $462
• AXA Platinum: $550

Premiums for AXA plans are between 6.5% and 9.2%, which is roughly in line with the average cost for travel insurance. This is to be expected, as travel insurance is often more expensive for older travelers.

How to Purchase and Manage Your AXA Policy

The process of purchasing an AXA policy is simple. After obtaining your quote, you'll need to decide which of AXA's three plans you want to buy. When you pay for your plan, be prepared to provide additional personal information, like your birthday, phone number, and address. 

Once you finalize your purchase, you'll have a 10-day free look period, in which you can cancel your policy and get your money back. 

How to File a Claim with AXA Travel Insurance

To file a claim with AXA Assistance USA, head to the claims forms online to find the appropriate form. Once you've filled out your form and gathered the required documentation, you can email them to [email protected] or send them by mail to:

AXA Assistance USA

On Behalf of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies

P.O. Box 26222

Tampa, FL 33623

If you need assistance when filing claims, AXA's claims office can be reached at 1-888-957-5015 (within the U.S.) and 1-727-450-8794 (outside the U.S.). Office hours are 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. ET on Thursdays and 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. ET on all other weekdays. 

AXA's U.S. branch has few reviews on Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau — just over 20 between the two sites. Its UK branch has over 1,100 reviews, most of which are overwhelmingly negative. However, the quality of AXA Travel Insurance UK isn't necessarily indicative of its U.S. coverage. 

In fact, on SquareMouth, where the majority of AXA U.S.'s reviews, reviews are generally positive. It received an average of 4.22 stars out of five across over 900 reviews. Customers reported that adjusting an AXA policy was easy and the customer service team was responsive. However, reviews on the claims process was more mixed, with spotty communication and long wait times. 

See how AXA travel insurance compares to top travel insurance providers.

AXA Assistance USA vs. AIG Travel Guard

When comparing AXA to Travel Guard , we'll look at the coverage levels from their mid-tier plans, the Silver plan and Travel Guard Preferred plan, respectively.

With Travel Guard Preferred plan, you'll get:

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $150,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to $225,000
• Emergency medical coverage of $50,000
• Coverage for baggage loss, theft, or damage up to $1,000
• Travel delay coverage of up to $800

Comparing those Travel Guard coverages with AXA's Silver plan, you'll see that AXA's coverage limits are a bit higher. With AXA's Silver plan you'll get $100,000 in emergency medical coverage, for example. And the baggage loss coverage limit is up to $1,500.

If you're looking for greater coverage limits, AXA makes the most sense in this scenario. But premiums will also vary based on factors like the traveler's age, trip destination, and trip cost. So you'll have to run your own numbers to make a final decision.

Read our AIG Travel Insurance review here.

AXA Assistance USA vs. Allianz Travel Insurance

Allianz Travel Insurance provides single-trip and multi-trip insurance for travelers who want to go abroad for an extended period of time. And, like with all insurance, the various plans have varying degrees of coverage.

Allianz Travel Insurance's most popular single-trip option is the OneTrip Prime plan, which offers:

• Trip cancellation coverage up to $100,000
• Trip interruption coverage up to $150,000
• Emergency medical coverage for $50,000
• Coverage for baggage loss, theft or damage up to $1,000
• Travel delay coverage up to $800

Looking at AXA's mid-tier Silver plan, you'll see that, again, AXA offers more coverage for emergency medical and baggage loss, theft, or damage than Allianz Travel Insurance. That said, if cost is an essential factor for you, you'll have to get quotes using your personal trip information to make an informed decision.

Read our Allianz Travel Insurance review here.

AXA Assistance USA vs. Credit Card Travel Insurance

Already have a great travel credit card, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or American Express Platinum? Some of the standard coverages, such as rental car insurance, may be included in the card you already have. It's a good idea to research the terms of your credit card's travel protection before purchasing a separate travel insurance policy.

If you're driving to your destination and don't have any non-refundable trip expenses, the coverage from your credit card may be enough. Another time it might work is if you have health insurance covering you while abroad and you're in good health without worrying about possible medical costs.

It's essential to remember that credit card coverage is usually secondary. This means you'll have to file a claim with the other applicable insurance before filing a claim with your credit card company.

Read our guide on the best credit cards with travel insurance here.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed AXA Assistance USA

We researched AXA by evaluating its travel insurance plans compared to other plans from the top travel insurance companies. The aspects we looked at included, but were not limited to, different coverage options, claims limits, what is covered, available add-ons, and extra services for policy holders.

What's important when choosing a policy isn't just the price — it's making sure you're getting adequate coverage that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Filing a claim should also be easy and stress-free if you ever have to use your policy.

Read more about how Business Insider rates insurance products here.

AXA Assistance USA FAQs

If you're diagnosed with COVID-19 before a trip and need to cancel, AXA may cover your expenses. Additionally, a COVID-19 diagnosis during a trip may be covered under AXA's medical expense, trip interruption, and trip delay benefits. Be sure to review your policy to ensure coverage details. 

While you may extend your coverage in certain circumstances, such as extended hospitalization, and update your travel dates prior to your departure, you can't extend AXA travel insurance plans while you're traveling. 

AXA's Gold and Platinum plan cover pre-existing medical conditions as long as you purchase your policy within 14 days of your initial trip deposit. AXA's Silver plan does not cover pre-existing conditions and has a 60-day look-back period. 

You can download AXA claims forms on its website and email them to [email protected].

AXA isn't the most flexible travel insurance company and isn't great at specializing, but it offers comprehensive general coverage. Its prices aren't significantly more expensive or cheaper than its competitors.

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AIG Travel Guard insurance review: What you need to know

Whether you need an annual plan or a policy for a last-minute trip, travel guard can deliver..

Travel Guard is one of CNBC Select 's picks for best travel insurance , thanks to its wide range of customizable policies. But are any of them right for you? Below, we review the provider and its offers and how they compare to the competition to help you choose the right travel insurance for your next trip.

Travel Guard review

Other insurance offered, how it compares, bottom line, travel guard® travel insurance.

The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote

Policy highlights

Travel Guard offers a variety of plans to suit travel ranging from road trips to long cruises. For air travelers, Travel Guard can help assist with tracking baggage or covering lost or delayed baggage.

24/7 assistance available

• A variety of plans are available to help cover different types of trips
• Not all products are available for purchase online

Travel Guard® is a global travel insurance provider specializing in plans for leisure and business travelers. Its online travel insurance packages include five options, from basic and last-minute trip coverage to more comprehensive plans. This allows travelers to pick a plan that best matches their situation.

For example, budget-minded travelers might go for the Essential Plan which offers basic protections, such as trip cancellation, interruption and delay insurance, coverage for lost, damaged and delayed baggage, and medical, evacuation and death coverage.

On the other hand, the Deluxe Plan — the most comprehensive option — adds such extras as missed connection coverage, security evacuation, travel inconvenience benefits and more. It also boosts high limits for essential coverages.

Last-minute travelers can opt for the Pack N' Go Plan which only includes certain post-departure coverages. Or, if you travel often, the Annual Plan can cover your trips throughout the year.

Finally, Travel Guard offers "offline" travel insurance packages, meaning you'll have to call if you're looking for a specialty plan.

Coverage types

Depending on the plan, here are the types of protection Travel Guard can include in your package:

• Trip cancellations
• Trip interruption
• Baggage coverage
• Baggage delay
• Travel medical expenses
• Travel inconvenience benefits (reimbursement for such situations as runway delays, cruise diversion and other unforeseen situations)
• Medical evacuation
• Trip Saver (reimbursement for meals, hotels and transportation if you need to begin your trip sooner due to weather or airline changes)
• Trip exchange (reimbursement in case you have to cancel your trip and book a new one due to covered unforeseen circumstances)
• Security evacuation (due to a riot or civil disorder)
• Flight guard (coverage for accidental death or dismemberment that occurs when traveling by plane)
• Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver

You can also customize your plan with add-ons, such as car rental insurance and "cancel for any reason" coverage .

Travel Guard landed on our list of the best travel insurance companies thanks to its variety of coverage. With plenty of options to choose from, both online and offline, it's easy to build a policy that meets your needs.

Travel Guard also features 24-hour concierge services that you can use to book a new flight in case of an emergency or delay.

The provider's website also offers informational resources — here, you can check travel news, read safety tips and find general travel advice. Additionally, the website lets you modify your plan, file a claim and check its status, or apply for a voucher or refund.

As of writing, Travel Guard doesn't offer any discounts. That's common for travel insurance — you're more likely to find deals when shopping for other types of insurance, such as home and auto insurance .

Travel Guard is a portfolio of travel insurance and travel-related services offered by AIG Travel, a member of American International Group (AIG). AIG also offers life insurance and a variety of business insurance products.

Travel Guard makes it easy to get a travel insurance policy customized to your needs. But before you purchase coverage, it's always a good idea to shop around.

For example, if you're going on a cruise, you might want to look at Nationwide Travel Insurance . The provider advertises cruise-specific insurance with three plan options available. This type of coverage is designed with issues unique to cruises in mind — from ship-based breakdowns to missed pre-pard excursions.

If you're planning a more active trip filled with rock climbing or sky diving, Berkshire Hathaway offers the AdrenalineCare® plan which features coverage for unforeseen costs that result from participating in extreme sports on your trip, as well as reimbursement for sporting equipment delay. Pre-existing conditions are covered under this plan (if you meet qualifying conditions).

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has multiple plans to cover vacations from luxury travel to adventure travel. The brand's LuxuryCare offers the highest limits of travel insurance coverage offered by the company. Quotes and policies are available online.

As you can see, offerings vary by provider. It can be helpful to compare multiple companies and the plans they offer to find what works best for you. It's even better if you gather several quotes to ensure you're getting a good price for your policy.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Travel Guard offers plenty of ways to customize your policy, making it a solid choice for travel insurance. You can also access additional options by giving Travel Guard a call. However, make sure to check out other travel insurance companies too — comparison shopping is essential when picking any type of financial product.

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every insurance review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of insurance products . While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics.

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

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City of opportunity: 7 advantages to living in Moscow

1. Moscow never sleeps

The first advantage, and one that every single respondent mentioned, is the ability to buy anything and get any household service performed at any time of the day or night. “You can go to a bookstore at 2:00 in the morning, buy a lamp at a construction market at 3:00 in the morning, find flowers for your girlfriend at 5:00 in the morning, and get your car washed at 6:00 in the morning,” says American producer Bob Van Ronkel, who has lived in Moscow for more than a decade.

The only thing you can’t buy in Moscow in the middle of the night is alcohol. All the liquor shelves in stores are sealed off after 11:00 p.m.

2. Pay terminals for cell phone, internet, and utilities payments

You won’t find yourself without a cell phone signal in Moscow. The most crowded places – stores, underground pedestrian crossings, restaurants, pharmacies, the metro – all have round-the-clock pay terminals. “You just have to punch in your phone number, enter the amount of money you want, and your account is refilled. It also works for your internet account. It’s simple and convenient,” says Croatian programmer Ivan Vuckovic.

You don’t have to go to the bank to pay for utilities, either. The same pay terminals take payments for all possible accounts, taxes, and even speeding ticket fines. It is much more complicated in Europe. “In Croatia, for example, to pay your phone balance you have to buy a special card with a code at a kiosk, and you later have to enter that code into your phone. Naturally, the kiosk isn’t open 24 hours,” Vuckovic complains.

3. Vkontakte vs Facebook

Russian social network VKontakte is particularly popular among foreigners who speak Russian. The network contains a huge number of audio and video files in Russian [though most of these are illegal – RBTH]. Mexican Alejandro Ordonez is a developer of modern Russian-Mexican economic and cultural relations, so for him VKontakte is not only a way to virtually hang out with friends, but also a place where he can watch Russian films, TV shows, and series, as well as listen to music and study Russian online on professors’ profiles. “Even when I’m not in Russia, I don’t forget Russian,” Alejandro said. Foreigners who use Facebook have remarked that the Russian social network has many advantages; for example, it has none of the adverts that accompany the newsfeeds of Facebook users.

4. Text message alerts from the bank

Some Russians have ATM cards at Russian banks and are given the option of setting up bank alerts via text message. “In Croatia, that means that the client will get one text message a day about the state of his personal account,” says Vuckovic. In Moscow, clients get a text message about any operation made with their bank card. This means that they always know how much money they have in their account. It is also an effective way to combat fraud, because the client can contact the bank immediately after receiving a text message about a fraudulent removal of money from his card.

5. Yandex.Traffic

All foreigners are afraid of traffic jams in Moscow, but few are aware of an online service that shows the current state of the roads in real time. This app is so detailed that you can see if there is a traffic jam on even the tiniest street. “At first it was scary to see the completely red Yandex map, which means that there are traffic jams everywhere in the city. But then I understood that this only happens during rush hour. The app really helps me move around Moscow and find the time to move,” said Australian Michael Alexander, who has fallen in love with Russia after three months in Moscow.

6. Medication without a prescription

The majority of medications can be purchased in Russia without a prescription. Antibiotics, hormonal medications, potent antihistamines, and statins can all be bought without having to visit a doctor first. Foreigners consider this a major plus because they can avoid wasting time and money on visiting the doctor. However, we can’t call this an accomplishment, per se, because the number of people engaging in self-medication is increasing with each year. By trying to save money, they are often at risk of seriously harming themselves.

7. Marshrutki

Areas with large concentrations of people are serviced not only by trolleybuses, trams, and buses, but also by marshrutki , something like a minibus. On the outside a marshrutka looks like a minibus, but as a rule it doubles as public transport. It is relatively cheap to ride a marshrutka , and you will typically arrive at your destination much faster than by using other forms of public transport. The only drawback that foreigners have noticed is the poor noise insulation, which makes it so that you have to practically scream at the driver to say where you want to go. “The first time I got scared when my girlfriend suddenly screamed in the marshrutka . It was so embarrassing, but later I got used to it and now I scream myself,” says Enrique Alvarez.

Read more:  Literature lovers can visit Pushkin and Mayakovsky online

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The Rick Steves guide to life

Travel mogul. Philanthropist. Legal weed champion. The real Rick Steves is so much more complex than who you see on TV.

EDMONDS, Wash. — At first glance, it is hard to tell that Rick Steves is protesting.

In the center of his hometown, America’s favorite travel host is perched on the edge of a fountain roundabout engaging in some friendly civil disobedience. As cars circle the intersection, Steves smiles and waves, looking more like an Elf on a Shelf than an angry picketer. This is his way of reminding people he wishes they’d stop driving here.

Steves’s family moved to Edmonds when he was 12, and the 68-year-old is still happy to call it home. Rather than relocate to his beloved Europe, he dreams of bringing some European sensibilities to the edge of the Puget Sound, less than 20 miles north of Seattle.

When he’s not traveling around Europe, writing about Europe or running his multimillion-dollar European tour company, the prolific TV host and author likes to squeeze in some local activism. The roundabout routine is his push to block off Edmonds’s very American Main Street for pedestrians. If you squint at it, you can see what Steves sees: This would be the perfect place for a lively town square.

“I like a lot of things about Europe, but I love the urban energy of Europe. I love the piazza,” Steves said in a wistful tone you might recognize from PBS. “We don’t have a piazza.”

Unfortunately for Steves, the voting majority of the city does not love the idea of parking their SUVs farther away to shop. So despite his Boy Scout enthusiasm, the most famous man in Edmonds must keep up the perch-and-wave. This is not his only crusade.

Spend any amount of time with Steves, and you’ll encounter a total ham who loves a zany bit. But if you ask him about serious issues such as car-free zones, he’ll bring up other causes that are dear to him: affordable housing, supporting the arts, creating senior centers for the elderly to age with dignity.

He’s anti-Trump and pro-cannabis. He does not care if that is bad for business.

The average Rick Steves fan has probably missed this side of him. On TV, they see an always-sunny history lover who makes going abroad feel approachable for the average American. That’s an incomplete picture, like thinking you know Paris because you’ve seen the Eiffel Tower on YouTube.

Meet him in Edmonds, and he’ll fill in the rest.

It may look like a lot of gallivanting, but being Rick Steves takes a lot of work.

He spends three months of the year overseas, researching, writing, recording, refining tours, updating guidebooks. If he’s not planning or producing content, he’s often doing promotional events across the United States. This year, Steves is celebrating the 40th edition of his first book, “Europe Through the Back Door.” Over the course of his career, he has built a privately held company that generates $120 million in revenue a year, published 110 books, filmed 12 seasons of “Rick Steves’ Europe” and produced more than 750 podcast episodes.

“It’s just like coordinating a three-ring circus,” Steves said.

That is: really fun, sort of exhilarating and extremely complicated. To pull this off, Steves does not observe the French 35-hour workweek. He’s a workhorse with a reputation for keeping a frenetic pace year-round.

“It’s more of an American work culture,” Amy Duncan, Steves’s communications director, told me. “He’s an unapologetic capitalist, but he is also a socialist.”

He makes enough money to fly first class, but he sits in only economy, claiming that he doesn’t mind being cramped.

“It never occurred to me that I’m suffering,” he said. “As long as I’ve got an aisle and a seat that reclines, I’m happy.”

Actually, Steves believes airlines should have only one class. It’s part of his egalitarian worldview. He’s also anti-points and anti-miles, refusing to sign up for airline loyalty programs because he believes that they bully us into complicating our lives.

Steves also enforces a self-imposed “ carbon tax ” on his tour company, which takes more than 30,000 people to Europe annually. For every customer, Steves invests $30 to atone for emissions created by their flights between the United States and Europe. Last year, that added up to $1 million donated to a portfolio of organizations, Steves said.

“I don’t need to be a slave to the quarterly profit statement. I want to be around and profitable in 10 years from now in a world that you can travel in that’s stable,” Steves said. “This is a smart investment, and it’s an ethical expense that I should pay for.”

Rick Steves will tell you he’s motivated by making money; the more he can earn, the more good he can do with it.

“Vicarious consumption, that’s one of my things,” Steves said.

After amassing a windfall from the 2001 George W. Bush tax cuts for high earners, Steves donated $1 million to support the local symphony and performing arts center. In 2005, he used retirement savings to buy a 24-unit apartment complex for the local YWCA’s use as transitional housing for women and children. He figured he’d eventually sell the complex and live on the earnings. About a decade later, he changed his mind and donated the complex valued at $4 million.

He also gave more than $4 million to help build the Edmonds Waterfront Center, a vibrant gathering place for seniors where his daughter had her wedding in 2021. And he gave another $2 million for a similar center in the nearby city of Lynnwood, which broke ground in mid-April .

“Rick puts his money where his mouth is,” said Nancy Leson, a former Seattle Times food critic who used to let Steves’s daughter babysit her son. She has appreciated his regular presence in the community, which has entailed hosting events for local politics at his house and shopping at the farmers market .

“He changed travel,” local resident Karen Howe said on her way into the Waterfront Center with a friend. She has used Steves’s guidebooks for years. “He’s introduced us to places that most of us would never think of going.”

Steves hasn’t won his piazza battle, but he has brought European touches to Edmonds. At the Rick Steves’ Europe headquarters, there’s an E.U. flag hanging from the mocha brick facade. And gargoyles that drain rainwater, just like at the Notre Dame cathedral.

“Gargoyles scare away evil spirits,” Steves points out, unable to suppress his inner tour guide.

Here Steves employs more than 100 people: editors, audio producers, tour specialists and cartographers such as Dave Hoerlein, his first employee. That’s excluding the fleet of guides and drivers he contracts across the pond to shepherd tour customers.

Inside, he bounds through a maze of cubicles, his neck craned forward, always at an eager pace. His 6-foot frame appears leaner than in previous seasons of his life, but his signature look is familiar. No, not khakis and a button-down. That’s vintage Rick. These days, he wears dark jeans and a button-down, plus a thin scarf and leather sneakers.

During a day of meetings, Steves’s fjord-blue eyes lit up at the minutia of the business. He went over new maps with Hoerlein. He and longtime co-author Cameron Hewitt addressed problems such as finding a “less glitzy” stop on the Amalfi Coast that’s not Sorrento. They discussed whether a place is worth visiting after it’s gotten too popular, and Steves indulged in some gallows humor.

“It’s going to be like holding the corpse of a loved one who just died,” he said.

His critics argue that the “Rick Steves Effect” can turn a charming village, restaurant or museum into a tourist magnet. Matthew Kepnes, the travel writer behind the blog Nomadic Matt , points to the Swiss town Zermatt, which he says Steves put on the map, and has since dealt with overtourism . You’re bound to bump into groups with Rick Steves guidebooks in Italy’s increasingly crowded Cinque Terre.

Whether Steves is actually to blame for changing a place is up for debate. There are plenty of destinations he’s covered that haven’t been inundated with swarms of Americans (see also: Gdańsk).

Steves says he assesses whether a place wants tourism, if it can handle it gracefully. If it doesn’t or can’t, he may mention it but not promote it.

He has faith — maybe too much — that his clients share his values.

“Does [my work] change the personality of a town? It can. Am I a dramatic impact on Europe? No,” he said.

“There’s a handful of places I really promote aggressively that I’ve had a serious impact on, but otherwise ... my travelers are the kind of people that take only pictures and leave only footprints. ... They’re good travelers.”

You don’t have to spend much time in Edmonds to see why Steves never considered leaving.

The city — population roughly 42,000 — sits on a majestic inlet. You can get to a major international airport in about an hour. The community is so courteous, it has an “umbrella share” program in case people forget their own on a rainy day. As Steves walks around town, he greets people by name. He lives within walking distance to both his favorite diner and a pétanque court, the French answer to Italian bocce. He plays bongos at his church on Sundays.

In 1967, Richard “Dick” Steves moved the family here because he was worried about Rick Junior.

“I was hanging out with dangerous kids and going down the wrong trail,” Steves said. Seriously.

His dad, an Army veteran, got by in the upscale suburb as a piano technician and importer. When Steves was 14, his parents dragged him on a work trip to Europe to visit piano factories; it was a radical experience that sparked his lifelong passion for travel.

Back in Edmonds, Steves started teaching piano, eventually turning his savings into trips abroad of his own — not only to Europe, but also to Turkey, Nepal, Afghanistan. He went to college nearby, earning degrees in European history and business from the University of Washington, where he played in the Husky Marching Band.

After graduating, Steves figured he could keep up his routine: give piano lessons during the school year, then travel during the summer. He started teaching travel classes in the same recital hall where his piano students performed. This was back when there was no internet and there were few guidebooks to consult for trip planning.

The classes were a hit. At 25, Steves turned his lecture materials into a 180-page book, and self-published “Europe Through the Back Door,” in 1980.

Four years later, he hosted his first European minibus tour group, serving as both bus driver and guide.

His businesses have evolved; his bus tours now take up to 28 travelers, a number Steves says is a sweet spot between making the tour more affordable yet enjoyable for customers and profitable for the company. But his mission has remained the same: to be the best resource for European travel and help Americans travel better.

“I just focus on that and I love it,” he said. “It takes my life out of balance — which is not good — but it lets me do a lot of stuff that I believe in and that’s good.”

Steves has been open about the challenges of being a travel mogul. As he built his empire, he was also raising a family. Being “married” to both took a toll. In 2010, Steves and his wife, Anne, divorced after 25 years of marriage.

Up the hill from his junior high, Rick Steves’s modest beige home offers a window into his many lives. There are family photos on the walls, from older relatives to his baby grandson, Atlas. He hosts political fundraisers on the sprawling deck. A painting of Kerala, India, nods to one of his favorite countries. (People forget that Steves did four editions of “Asia Through the Back Door.”)

Next to his grand piano, there’s a stuffed creature that Steves calls his “Silver Fox” baring its teeth and wearing novelty sunglasses with cannabis leaves on the lenses — a nod to two of his interests: taxidermy and marijuana activism.

“It’s the civil liberties. … It’s the racism. … Everything about it is wrong,” he said of keeping weed illegal.

As for the toothy fox, Steves doesn’t do typical souvenirs anymore, but he makes an exception for stuffed animals.

“The wooden shoes and the pewter Viking ships are so obvious,” he said. “I like to do something a little more organic and a little more striking, and it takes me back there — I like it.”

He’s a very good piano player. He can also play the sousaphone and the trumpet — which he did regularly during the pandemic, performing taps for his neighbors at sunset.

The coronavirus was a nightmare for the travel business, but a miracle for Steves’s love life.

After running in the same social circles for years, he and Shelley Bryan Wee, a prominent local bishop, started dating at the end of 2019. They had a lot in common. Both are progressive Lutherans. Both are divorced with adult children. But neither worked a typical 9-to-5, and one of them spent three months of the year in Europe.

Then shutdowns happened. Steves, who couldn’t remember whether he’d ever had dinner in the same place 10 nights in a row, spent 100 nights at the same table with Wee. It solidified their relationship.

“Shelley is a constant,” Steves said. He still struggles with the balancing act between work and love.

When the stars align and they’re both in Edmonds, Wee cooks, and Steves plays sous-chef. They walk Jackson, Wee’s labradoodle, creating their own version of the passeggiata, Italy’s traditional evening stroll. They play table tennis before dinner.

When the world reopened, they started traveling together. They’ve made time for a few big vacations: a trip to Morocco, where they were caught in a windstorm that blew the windows out of their car; a luxury barge cruise through Burgundy, France, “that was embarrassingly expensive,” Steves confessed, followed by a week hiking in the Swiss Alps; and another hiking trip between remote lodges on Mont Blanc.

Before their first trip, Steves edited the contents of Wee’s suitcase, because packing light is part of his philosophy.

“What do you say?” she asked. “You’re talking to Rick Steves.”

Editing by Gabe Hiatt. Additional editing by Amanda Finnegan. Design editing by Christine Ashack. Photo editing by Lauren Bulbin. Videos by Monica Rodman. Senior video producer: Nicki DeMarco. Design by Katty Huertas. Copy editing by Jamie Zega.

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Pros and Cons of Moving to Moscow

This guide was written prior to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine and is therefore not reflective of the current situation. Travel to Russia is currently not advisable due to the area's volatile political situation.

Rich in history and culture, Moscow is an exciting destination for expats. Nevertheless, they may experience frustrations arising from bureaucracy, a difficult language adjustment and extreme weather conditions. Nonetheless, the city offers an attractive lifestyle with its active social life and vibrant arts and culture scene. 

Accommodation in Moscow

Densely populated Moscow offers a variety of options for accommodation, though lots of competition and high prices make finding the perfect home a bit tricky.

+ PRO: Range of options

There are many different types of accommodation available in Moscow. Expats are just as likely to find themselves in a pre-revolutionary apartment with high ceilings, thick walls and interesting architecture as in a modern apartment block with good facilities and high-tech features. There are also several international compounds with other expats. These gated communities usually offer their own sports facilities and social activities. 

- CON: High demand and expensive 

With so many people living in Moscow, housing is in great demand and can therefore be expensive. Apartments are also often small, and expats may be disappointed with what their money can buy. Realistically, size, quality and location are the most important factors influencing the cost of accommodation in Moscow. Expats with a limited budget may need to compromise on one or more of these factors to find a home that best suits them.

Lifestyle in Moscow

Moscow is a huge city, offering a wide range of activities and events . The expat community is close-knit, giving new arrivals the opportunity to make friends.

+ PRO: Great social scene 

There is so much to do in Moscow, with activities catering for every interest. Most groups and organisations are well-organised and welcoming to newcomers. The expat community is busy throughout the year with balls and charity events.

Nightlife within the city is excellent, with a variety of bars, clubs and restaurants to choose from. The quality of museums, art galleries, theatres and concerts is also outstanding.

- CON: Eating out can be expensive

Restaurants in Moscow can be extremely expensive. Expats may find their social life is limited if living on a budget. Luckily, knowing the right places will help make going out more affordable.

Education and schools in Moscow

+ pro: international schools are available .

There are several international schools in Moscow offering excellent quality education and facilities. There are also good private Russian schools, although only a small percentage of expat children attend these.

- CON: Demand is high and space is limited

The demand for schools outweighs the supply. Therefore, schools in Moscow can be expensive with long waiting lists. Schools are usually located outside of central Moscow. So, unless expats live close to the school, children will have to travel some distance by school bus or car each day.

Climate in Moscow

+ pro: many winter and summer outdoor activities.

The climate in Moscow is quite extreme. Winter weather can be beautiful in Moscow, with blue skies and sunshine on the white snow. Cross-country skiing is popular with expats and ice-skating is possible all over the city as many playgrounds are made into ice-rinks. Summer is a great time to explore Moscow, as the city is generally quieter. There are lakeside and river beaches in Moscow, where expats and locals alike can take advantage of the good weather.

- CON: Long winters 

The extreme winter weather can make living in Moscow challenging for most of the year. Expats should make sure to have enough thick and warm winter clothing to get them through. 

Safety in Moscow

- con: bribery and corruption.

Bribery and corruption are still issues in Moscow, and expats are sometimes affected by this. It's also not uncommon to find incidents of racism.

Healthcare in Moscow

+ pro: medical facilities are of a high standard .

There are many private medical centres in Moscow with well-trained doctors who can, in most cases, speak English. Dental treatment is also of a high standard in the city.

- CON: Healthcare is expensive

Getting medical treatment can sometimes be expensive, although most expats have insurance to cover these costs. Dental treatment is also pricey, although competitive with other European prices. 

Public transport in Moscow

+ pro: comprehensive public transport system.

Moscow has an impressive public transport system . The metro is not only clean, safe, efficient and fast; it is also a tourist attraction. Daily tours explore the metro system, with guides showing tourists through some of the city's most beautiful stations. These stations often resemble palaces, with sculptures, mosaics and even chandeliers. There is also an extensive bus, trolleybus and tram route throughout Moscow. Many of Moscow’s buses now even have Wi-Fi access.

- CON: Crowded public transport during rush hour 

Rush hour on the metro can be unpleasantly crowded. Many of the metro stations and trains also haven’t changed all their signs to show both the Cyrillic alphabet and the Latin alphabet. Being able to read place names in Russian is therefore helpful to avoid getting lost in the rush hour chaos.

- CON: Heavy traffic

Bad traffic can put people off travelling in and around Moscow. Luckily, the metro system is good and expats living near transport stops shouldn't have any issues getting around. The traffic could be a problem for those who choose to drive in Moscow, however. 

Further reading

►For a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for basic goods and services in Moscow, see  Cost of Living in Russia .

Expat Interviews " What I like the most about Moscow is the city itself. It is always clean, vibrant, and full of entertainment and friendly pedestrians. It means that you can walk as far as you want to and feel safe about doing so." Read about Eva's experience living in Moscow as an expat .  "What I like about Moscow is that it’s very dynamic and animated; there is always something to do at any time of the day and of the night!"  Read about Laurent's experience and his likes and dislikes of living in Moscow.

Are you an expat living in Moscow?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Moscow. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.

Expat Health Insurance

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9 Free Services to Take Advantage of Now

Text Callout : Key Takeaways - 9 Free Services to Take Advantage of Now

When you need to be careful with money, taking advantage of what's available at no cost to you is powerful. Reducing expenses this way can help alleviate financial stress brought on by inflation.

Higher prices on goods and services have caused most Americans to make major adjustments to their budgets. According to a 2024 Wells Fargo Money Study , the state of the economy has caused 67% of respondents to cut back on spending.

Free things can expand or refine your budget and help you get the most out of life, even when cash isn’t tight. Here are nine free things or services that you can get online or in person:

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1. Credit Card Benefits

Most credit cards come with plenty of free perks, so log in to your account and review your list of benefits. Odds are there are at least a few that will replace the things you normally pay for.

For example, you can save yourself the checked bag fee (often up to $40 per piece) if your travel card includes it. Your card may also provide you with annual passes to expensive airport lounges, and credits for things like Uber and Lyft, streaming services, food and beverages at the airport and on the plane, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry.

Buying travel insurance may be a waste if your account includes it. You may be covered in case of delayed, lost or damaged luggage; trip delays and cancellations; and medical treatment – all without having to pay for a separate policy.

Other cards come with valuable extras, such as Bank of America’s Museums on Us program, which grants credit and debit card holders free general admission at participating museums on the first full weekend of the month.

2. Items and Programs at Your Public Library 

You can borrow books at the public library instead of buying them, which can save you money on its own, but you may be surprised to learn what else is available. Most libraries offer an array of freebies, such as passes to local attractions, family events, classes, lectures and summer and after-school programs for the kids. Ask the librarian or visit your branch’s website.

“Your library is a haven of free entertainment,” says Andrea Woroch, a writer, speaker, media consultant and money-saving expert from Bakersfield, California.

"You can access media right from home through your mobile device or computer, as many libraries give members the ability to rent video content and e-books through their digital platforms – all for free. Essentially, this means you could cancel your various streaming services and save big on entertainment by using your library,” Woroch says.

Depending on your branch, you may also have free access to activity kits for children, garden supplies, board games and toys, and even tools. Why buy when you can borrow?

Some libraries even give things away, so check regularly to see what’s available. For example, the San Francisco Public Library distributes free drug and alcohol recovery books to the public.

"There’s no need to check them out, they’re yours to keep,” says Doreen Horstin, Park Branch Library manager. “The library hopes to expand the pilot program to all 27 branches in the coming year.”

3. Money-Management Apps

To help you better manage your money, financial technology can come to your rescue. The majority of budgeting applications are free (or have a free version) for users, and they're aimed at helping you keep track of your expenses and increase your net worth .

Apps like YNAB and Rocket Money can help you get your finances in order and set a budget that helps you reach your various goals, whether they’re saving for a big purchase or paying down debt.

“After linking all your financial accounts in one place, the app suggests a budget based on spending categories it pulls up and financial goals you input,” Woroch says.

Many of these apps will send alerts when you’re about to meet your budget cap for each spending category, a prompt that can help you avoid wasteful spending.

4. Travel Advisor 

You can make all of your travel arrangements on your own, but why not save yourself a major headache? Contact a travel advisor who will do it all for you – for free.

Many are paid by commission when they do the booking for you but some do charge fees, so ask up front. If you have an AAA membership, its travel agents are included in the price, so consider taking advantage of that next time you want to book a trip.

To ensure you’re working with a professional, ask if they're a member of the American Society of Travel Agents and certified by The Travel Institute. The advisor you work with can help you figure out where you want to go based on your style and budget, as well as book a rental car, flight, accommodations and tours.

If you get into trouble while you’re on the trip, the advisor can even step in and assist from afar.

Jackie Friedman, president of Nexion Travel Group, host agency for more than 5,000 travel advisors, says travel advisors also have access to special promotions and discounts – and some will even help make your trip special with upgrades to a premium flight cabin or a welcome basket in your hotel room.

5. Hotel Concierge

After arriving at your hotel or resort, scout out the concierge desk. The people who work there can be particularly helpful when you’re new to the area and don’t want to overspend on tourist traps.

Concierges can give you shopping advice, local travel guidance and maps. They can also arrange for taxis and other types of transportation, and make reservations for restaurants, shows, tours and attractions. Some will even go the extra mile and create a custom itinerary tailored for your budget.

Be aware that while concierges don’t charge hotel guests for their services, they gladly accept gratuities for any help they give beyond answering basic questions.

6. Small Business Advice 

When you want to launch your own business and are looking for support, you don't need to spend a dime to get the best advice from people who have years of experience.

SCORE is a nonprofit organization and resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) – and it provides its services for free to any U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

After enrolling in the program, you're partnered with a SCORE mentor in the industry you’re interested in. That person will provide you with individualized support, guidance, best practices consulting and education regarding the small business world.

Also check out the SBA's Small Business Development Centers that are located throughout the U.S. At no charge to you, you will have access to professional advice that can help you with business planning, marketing, problem solving, technical assistance and acquiring capital.

7. Fitness Training

A personal trainer can help you get into shape, but Lessons.com reports that the average cost is $40 to $100 per hour at the gym, and $100 to $175 per hour (or more) at home.

Whether you’re joining or already a member of a health club, find out if you're entitled to free personal training, says Trae Bodge, a journalist and shopping expert in Montclair, New Jersey. If you don’t remember mention of it in the contract, head to the front desk and find out if it’s free for members.

“No matter how experienced you are, this is always something to take advantage of,” Bodge says. “The trainer will know the gym inside and out and will hopefully teach you something new based on your fitness needs. The number of sessions you can get for free varies by health club but if you get only one, ask the trainer to design a routine that you can follow on your own.”

Another free option: YouTube videos. Although it's not the same as working with a professional in person, the variety is astronomical. Experts like Pamela Reif and Juice & Toya are always at the ready, and won’t cost you a penny.

8. Budget and Debt Assistance  

If you wind up in financial trouble, don't despair. You can get free access to a credit counselor who's ready to help.

“Credit counseling may involve analysis of a consumer’s financial situation, evaluation of debt reduction strategies for paying off or managing debt and education about money management,” says Madison Block, product marketing manager for American Consumer Credit Counseling Inc.

The credit counseling agency will connect you with a trained professional who will review your entire financial picture without judgment. You’ll receive advice on budgeting and planning and get resources specific to your situation.

To ensure you connect with an agency that doesn’t charge for this service, visit the National Foundation for Credit Counseling or the Financial Counseling Association of America .

9. Tax Preparation Help  

You can pay to have someone prepare your taxes, but you may not need to. The IRS has several free programs.

Through the IRS Free File program, you can file your taxes for free with guided tax preparation software. To qualify, your adjusted gross income must be $79,000 or less. Visit the IRS Free File: Guided Tax Software page .

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) are also free programs operated by people trained and certified by the IRS.

The general eligibility requirement for VITA includes an income of no more than $60,000. You may also qualify if you have a disability or English-language limitations. TCE is for people who are 60 and older and is particularly good for senior citizens who have questions about pensions and retirement plans.

To locate a nearby VITA or TCE site use the IRS’s VITA locator tool or call 800-906-9887.

The Bottom Line on Freebies

There’s no need to pay for something when you can get the same or similar service for free. Not only is it a gratifying feeling, but you can use the money you don’t spend on other expenses or to save for future goals.

Consider this list a start. Once you begin looking for freebies, you may find them in plenty of other places.

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

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Shady Southwest passengers are abusing the preboarding process — and fellow flyers are furious

Southwest’s laissez-faire approach to preboarding is causing turbulence.

Rule-abiding frequent flyers are calling out unscrupulous passengers who take advantage of the Dallas-based airline’s laidback attitude toward travelers who “need a little extra time” when boarding — with the carrier suggesting there’s little they can do to stop the bad actors.

Because Southwest doesn’t assign seats , preboarders get the run of the cabin, and a growing number of people — who reportedly are allowed to merely “self-identify” as disabled — are abusing the policy designed to give families with small children, the disabled and elderly a leg up, eagle-eyed observers insist.

Steve Maziarka, a national account manager based near Chicago’s Midway airport, a Southwest hub, told the Wall Street Journal he counted approximately 30 preboarders in line on a holiday period flight last year.

He reported seeing nearly as many on a Philadelphia to Chicago flight in February.

Every person in line meant Maziarka lost out on a prime seat he’d normally have access to. (Preboarders are prohibited from bagging sought after exit row seats.)

“People are taking advantage of the system,” says Maziarka, who has the airline’s top frequent-flier status. “It’s just gotten out of control.”

So out of control, in fact, that discussions on Reddit’s Southwest board have become heated to the point where moderators have repeatedly had to intervene, pleading for civility.

Because airlines can only pry so far into people’s personal situations, it’s difficult to prove that someone is preboarding under false pretenses.

This allows someone without scruples to use the longstanding policy to jump the line.

“Preboarding is offered to customers needing assistance for various reasons. We work hard to maintain the integrity of the boarding process while providing accommodations for all who fly,” followers of Southwest’s X feed will be used to hearing. “Since many disabilities aren’t visible, we’re unable to question the validity of preboarding requests.”

Spokesperson Chris Perry told the Journal that federal rules state all airlines are required to offer preboarding to any passenger self-identifying as disabled.

The outlet reported that the airline professes to ask a handful of questions to ensure that people qualify, but noted that the rep was unable to disclose details.

And even if the passenger runs into a skeptical gate agent, those who can’t get clearance to preboard are reportedly still allowed to join the family boarding group, which gets onto the plane after the A group.

The A group largely consists of frequent travelers and those who’ve paid extra fees for early boarding features.

Mike Worley, a fundraising exec who travels every week for work, told the Journal he has become less loyal to Southwest, upping his use of Delta Air Lines, partially due to the jetway jockeying.

On Delta, “you just never see preboarders go up to the counter en masse to get on,” he said.

While Worley’s status puts him in a good spot in Group A on Southwest, there are times he’s finding himself way too far back on the plane, he said.

“Ten or 12 rows back is 10 minutes to get off the plane,” the Charleston, S.C. traveler said. “That’s crucial time to me.”

Meanwhile, Southwest executives shrug, downplaying the complaints, the outlet said.

At least for now. The mood on the Southwest subreddit can at times appear to be almost ready to boil over, with passengers even posting photos of supposed scofflaws in an effort to publicly shame them.

The problem is now so bad, any post discussing pre-boarding is now being vetted for “ill-informed, unsympathetic” language,” moderators wrote. Videos of “alleged fakers taken by armchair physicians are going away,” they promised.

Passengers with actual disabilities who use the message board said they were heartened.

“While there is unfortunately a small category of people who abuse preboarding, there are tons of people with real and often invisible disabilities that truly need it for a safe and comfortable travel experience,” one said.

So far, suggestions from the subreddit on how to fix the nagging problem have gone unheeded by the airline — and even passengers say they’re kind of stumped themselves.

“I have actually wasted plenty of time contemplating how they can fix the problem,” frequent traveler Maziarka said. “I could never come up with a way to combat it.”

One popular idea: Forcing preboarders to move deeper into the plane, leaving the front rows open.

The issue may take care of itself — for the first time in years, there’s been discussion of assigned seats , something that would perhaps lure new customers at a time when profits are down.

Southwest isn’t the only organization coping with line cutters.

In April, Disney announced lifetime bans for anyone caught abusing the theme parks’ Disability Access Service in order to receive park perks, including no-wait rides.

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