COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS INFORMATION

IMPORTANT: Developments with the COVID-19 Coronavirus are occurring daily. The situation varies from country to country across the globe. We endeavour to keep this page up to date at all times, however advise customers to keep up to date with official government advice from their country of citizenship and country of travel.

PAGE UPDATED: 17 March 2020 – 10.30 GMT

COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic

On March 11th 2020 the World Health Organisation declare the COVID-19 Coronavirus a pandemic. The effects of the outbreak will be far reaching and will likely affect travel.

At Winter Sports Company, we are closely monitoring the situation and following the latest travel advice from the UK and Canadian Governments.

On this page you will find relevant that we hope will help you. This is a rapidly changing situation and we will update this page as more information becomes available.

How is Winter Sports Company Responding to the COVID-19 Coronavirus?

As a responsible, UK tour operator, we are following the situation carefully and following the advice from the UK Foreign Office.
On March 16th 2020 the Canadian Government announced travel restrictions to close the Canadian borders to non-citizens, this will come into place on Wednesday 18th March 2020 at 12.00 noon.

As of March 17 2020 Sun Peaks Resort, Panorama Mountain Resort and Hidden Valley have suspended operation and have closed, unlikely to reopen for the remainder of the winter season. We are contacting all customers to advise of the situation, and our phone lines remain open to discuss options with customers currently travelling with us.

As many of our customers are currently in Canada, we are also following the information and advice provided by the Canadian Government and are in regular contact with suppliers and resorts to ensure we are communicating the most up-to-date information to our customers.

We recommend customers keep up to date with their home country’s government travel advice, and make decisions on this basis. This page includes many useful links to relevant information.

Official Information

World Health Organisation

Official UK Websites

Official Australia Websites

Official New Zealand Websites

Official USA Websites

Official Ireland Websites

How can I contact Winter Sports Company?

Customers can contact Winter Sports Company via phone, email, social media and live chat. Clients in resort can contact their rep for the most up to date information.

Understandably, our office is very busy as we respond to the situation, please be patient if you are trying to get in touch or are awaiting a response. At present we are prioritising giving guidance and assistance to customers currently travelling with Winter Sports Company.

We kindly request understanding that we are dealing with an unprecedented situation and may not be able to respond to all queries immediately.

You can contact Winter Sports Company at info@wintersportscompany.com or call us on +44 1548 831152

What is the risk of catching the virus when travelling?

Current information from the Canadian Government describes the risk to the general public as low. Proper hygiene can help reduce the risk of infection or spreading infection to others:

wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the washroom and when preparing food. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
when coughing or sneezing:
- cough or sneeze into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand.
- dispose of any tissues you have used as soon as possible in a lined waste basket and wash your hands afterwards.
avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
clean the following high-touch surfaces frequently with household cleaners:
- toys
- toilets
- phones
- electronics
- door handles
- bedside tables
- television remotes

Many countries are beginning to implement periods of self isolation, or quarantine to delay the spread of the virus. Please keep up to date with your home country and country of travel’s information and advice.

How do I claim if my trip is cancelled or if I want to come home early?

We request guests contact their travel insurance provider for guidance on claims in the event of cancellation or if customers choose to return home prior to their scheduled departure date.
As of March 17th 2020 all 3 resorts we use in Canada have closed for the season due to the Covid-19 outbreak. All Winter Sports Company customers with flights included in their package have been offered an earlier flight home.
If your trip has been affected, please contact your travel insurance company.

What happens if there is a quarantine period whilst I'm travelling?

Many countries have closed schools, cancelled events with more than 500 people in attendance and taken measures to reduce the spread of the virus. Some countries have restricted travel to and from the country to certain destinations. This is not the case in either Canada or the UK at the moment.

In the event there is a quarantine period in the UK or Canada, travel may be disrupted. The UK foreign office states:

“If the local authority where you are proposes to quarantine you for your own protection, you should follow their advice. When you are abroad, your safety and security is their responsibility.

If there are suspected cases of coronavirus where you are, you may need to remain in your hotel room or accommodation for 14 days, move to quarantine facilities, take tests for coronavirus and, if positive in some cases, be hospitalised abroad.

You should also contact your airline or travel company, and your insurance provider as soon as you can. We only organise assisted departure in exceptional circumstances.”

If you have any concern about a quarantine period which would extend beyond your time in resort, please contact your insurance company for information about this.