French tour operators announced on Tuesday the postponement of all departures scheduled until May 15 inclusive, against late April so far, due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Around 350,000 customers of tour operators are affected for the month of April.
This decision is motivated by "the health situation" related to the new coronavirus and the "inevitable and exceptional circumstances which impose travel restrictions", said in a statement the Seto (union of tour operators).
"Regarding cruises, this provision can be adapted according to the constraints of shipping and river companies", continues this text.
"For the journeys concerned", specifies Seto, "the tour operators will inform their customers as soon as possible". They "are at the disposal of their customers and travel agencies to answer their questions".
Possibility of a postponement for 18 months
Organized trips, all-inclusive stays and independent services such as accommodation or car rental that have been canceled from March 1 and until September 15, due to Covid-19, may be postponed for 18 months to by means of a "credit note", which was created by ordinance.
The professional may offer an equivalent service or a higher amount or several stays of a lower amount. At the end of the 18 months, if the customer has not used his credit, he can obtain a refund. This credit does not apply to dry transportation services.
