Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30
Coronavirus FAQs
Questions about cover for coronavirus? Read our FAQs and find out what our policies can do for you. If you would like to contact us, please note we are currently only available 09:00 to 17:30 Monday to Friday due to reduced operational capacity. Thank you.
15 May 2015 11:49
Many people feel better during the summer
Most people get a spring in their step and feel a little brighter when the sun shines and the wintry weather gives way to summer. But now research suggests people really may be healthier in the summertime.
Scientists say the findings may explain why conditions such as heart disease, arthritis and diabetes are less likely to be suffered over the summer. People with such conditions can secure peace of mind when taking a holiday by arranging pre-existing travel insurance.
Immune to seasonal change
The team from the University of Cambridge believe this could be down to people's immune systems changing with the seasons. The scientists analysed genes from people living in the UK, US, Australia, Iceland and Gambia.
And they found the level of activity in nearly one in four of the 23,000 tested genes changed depending on the time of year. Some of the genes were more active in the summer months while others were more active during the winter, researchers say.
ARNTL is a gene which, in mice, has been linked with suppressing infections. Researchers say their analysis showed it was more active in the summer months. That, they say, suggests it could play a similar role in people.
Environmental triggers
The scientists say while it is not yet known precisely what causes the seasonal differences they believe these could be triggered by daylight, temperature and other environmental factors.
The Wellcome Trust's head of infection and immunobiology, Professor Mike Turner, has praised the University of Cambridge study, adding that the findings back the widely-held belief that people, in general, tend to be in better health over the summer.
09 March 2020
Move over hot cross buns and chocolate eggs, there's a whole world of Easter treats out there. Here are some alternative Easter foods from around the world.
[more...]
Forget egg hunts and bunnies, Easter's done a little bit differently in these corners of the world. Here five alternative Easter celebrations.
28 February 2020
Keep your carbon footprint in check and travel green with our eco-friendly travel tips.
25 February 2020
For true carefree travel, decide on a destination that's kinder to the planet...
20 February 2020
Travel into the future and not just through time-zones, with destinations shaping urban living.
National Anthem Day falls on the 3rd March, so what better excuse is there to delve into into the world of music and motherland?
Discover five alternative places to get down on one knee this leap year.
Two-wheels are better than none. Check out our favourite cities best explored from a saddle.
04 February 2020
Make your phone the perfect travel companion for the new year...
Bohemian boulevards and ornate opera houses await away from the Six Nations action.
Kite Flying Day falls on 8th February. What better time is there to plan your next trip through the skies?
10 February 2020
With Ferris Wheel Day on 14th February, there's never been a better excuse to enjoy a foreign skyline.