The new coronavirus originating in Wuhan has killed more than 80 people and infected at least 2,000 more in 31 provinces in mainland China as of January 27 at 16:00. Travel restrictions have been imposed, tourist attractions closed and public entertainments have been canceled to restrict the spread of the virus.
A number of cases of infection have been recorded in more than 10 other regions and countries, including diagnosed cases in France, Australia, Canada, the U.S., Singapore, Thailand, Japan, South Korea and Malaysia.
In response to the need for prevention and control of the virus outbreak, Trip.com Group has launched a “Safeguard Cancellation Guarantee” initiative. Through this initiative the company asks global operators to offer a free cancellation policy for customers who have booked travel plans with a check-in date through early February.
So far, 37 global airlines (including Asiana Airlines and Singapore Airlines) and over 10 international hotel chains (including Hilton, Shangri-La, Intercontinental Hotel Group, Marriott, Hyatt, Accor, Melia, Jumeirah) have participated in this initiative.
