HONG KONG — As Japan grapples with the aftermath of a recent 7.1-magnitude earthquake off Kyushu, travelers are facing potential insurance pitfalls that could leave them out of pocket if their trips are disrupted.
On August 8, Japanese authorities issued an unprecedented warning of a heightened risk for a major earthquake, raising alarms among both residents and international travelers. The Hong Kong Federation of Insurers cautioned that policies might not cover cancellations or interruptions linked to this “known risk.”
Selina Lau, the federation’s chief executive, emphasized the importance of reading policy details. “If the insurance was purchased after the initial quake on August 8, travelers may not receive compensation for cancellations or shortened trips,” she explained.
At Hong Kong International Airport, travelers expressed mixed emotions about their plans. A man surnamed Lo revealed that his family decided to proceed with their 10-day trip to Tokyo after confirming their insurance was valid. “We planned the trip for a very long time. I don’t want to disappoint my kids and family. It is a bit risky, but we still want to go,” he said.
In contrast, another traveler, a woman surnamed Yip, felt compelled to continue with her plans to Osaka. “I booked the trip around five months ago and I could not apply for a refund now,” she noted. Yip received assurances from her insurer that her trip would still be covered, despite the looming risks. “I have checked the consulate’s phone numbers and if anything happens, I will deal with it when it comes,” she added.
As the situation evolves, travelers are urged to stay informed and vigilant about their insurance coverage.
