The Vacation That Never Was

On Thursday, my parents left for a much-anticipated sailing trip around the Greek Islands with a group of friends. They had planned everything with military precision -- the route, the provisions, the list of gifts to buy me (I am the spoiled daughter after all). The one event they did not prepare for was the freak accident that occurred less than 24 hours before they were to take off.

Thankfully, though still unfortunate, my parents were not the victims and they did board their plane. It was their friend Robin, however, who had to stay home. The day before their departure, Robin was innocently enjoying a beautiful late summer day in Central Park. She was walking -- nothing dangerous like tree climbing or grass sledding -- along a path when a passing bicyclist ran into her, knocked her down and smashed her kneecap. Robin had to cancel her trip and is spending her convalescent time arguing with the airline over crediting her business class seat to Athens.

The Greek hotel was more sympathetic and canceled her reservation without penalty (the 24-hour pre-arrival rule). The charter sailboat company could not return her money, but travel insurance will help defray the costs. (As of late last week, the cabin remained unoccupied--I am spoiled, but not that spoiled.)

I know that in the days preceding any vacation, I am a bit more cautious about my daily activities than usual. I will not, for example, take any risky day outings that could compromise my big trip. It is just not worth it. (Growing up, we could never go skiing the weekend before our Christmas vacation holiday.)

But Robin's experience highlights an important point: No matter where you are or what you doing, even the most harmless activities (eating, walking, showering) could potentially disrupt your vacation plans. To that end, before any trip, know the reimbursement and cancellation policies for each portion of your trip--plane, hotel, boat, excursions, etc. Sign up for travel insurance if it seems like you could lose a bundle. And, yes, if you are still worried, wear knee and elbow pads for extra protection.

Of course, you shouldn't become so paranoid that you issue a self-imposed house arrest for the 24 hours preceding your trip. But there is no shame in being prepared. Perhaps this is like the umbrella rule for travel?
Any suggestions on how to prevent pre-vacation disasters?

By Andrea Sachs |  September 18, 2007; 7:01 AM ET  | Category:  Andrea Sachs , Tales from the Road
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