2/ Had a family trip to Hawaii planned for next month that we booked last year.
Just received FULL refunds for both the flight (United attempted to shift my departure forward by a full day), and the hotel (which updated its cancellation policy to waive fees b/c of COVID-19).
Just received FULL refunds for both the flight (United attempted to shift my departure forward by a full day), and the hotel (which updated its cancellation policy to waive fees b/c of COVID-19).
3/ That said, it wasn't easy...took almost 2 full hours on the phone this morning with Expedia before they agreed to issue full refunds -- and only then because I noticed my itinerary was significantly altered and called them to discuss.
4/ To be clear, I could have cancelled last week -- when everything still appeared to be on schedule according to Expedia.
This despite an email from the hotel last week requesting I reschedule due to 14-day quarantines for arriving travelers through the end of June...
This despite an email from the hotel last week requesting I reschedule due to 14-day quarantines for arriving travelers through the end of June...
5/ ...But if I had cancelled then, it would have been through Expedia's website as their phone system was automatically hanging on anyone -- including me -- whose scheduled departure wasn't within 10 days.
6/ Even this morning before calling, the site offered me a ~$1600 refund for the hotel after deducting an $800 cancellation fee per the hotel's old policy. Expedia was apparently unaware that the hotel updated said policy until I pointed it out.
7/ Finally, both the site and Expedia phone rep attempted to get me to accept a travel voucher for the flights.
But vouchers only give you a future credit for UP TO the cost of your existing ticket.
Future flight costs more? You pay the difference.
Less? Airline keeps it.
But vouchers only give you a future credit for UP TO the cost of your existing ticket.
Future flight costs more? You pay the difference.
Less? Airline keeps it.
8/ So I'll reiterate: If your airline cancels or significantly changes your flight, you're under no obligation to accept a voucher. And double check your hotel's cancellation policies.
Be firm, patient, and know the rules. The rest should take care of itself.
Be firm, patient, and know the rules. The rest should take care of itself.
