The Consumer Council is deeply concerned over the rate of accidents involving Hong Kong package tours in the Mainland.
The Council pledges its full support to the efforts and measures which the Travel Industry Council (TIC) is considering to strengthen the safety of Hong Kong outbound tours to the Mainland.
As the Council has received enquiries from consumers expressing concerns over their safety, travel agents are urged to ensure proper safety measures are in place by their counterparts in the Mainland.
Consumers are advised to consider insurance when travelling. They should read the policy carefully to ensure that the scope of the insurance coverage is adequate for the purpose, and do not put down as the beneficiary the person or persons travelling with you on the trip.
Consumers should leave the original of the policy with their relatives at home and carry with them the copy which they can produce in the event of need. It is prudent to also leave a copy with your travel agent.
As a matter of general advice, consumers who experience difficulties in insurance compensation claims or consider civil claims against responsible parties, can approach the Consumer Council for advice on their consumer rights.