COVID-19 PROCEDURES (December 2020)

The second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic is upon us and, as per the order by the government of the Province of Ontario, our offices (as a non-essential service in Toronto) are currently closed until December 21st and this may be extended.

We have been planning tours for international student groups since 1988.  We have seen a lot of changes and faced a lot of challenges since that time.  Safety has always remained one of our key ingredients to every successful tour.  Our priority has always been the safety and well-being of our travellers and our staff.

The situation with the Covid-19 virus spread is changing on a daily basis and we take this very seriously and are watching the news constantly and monitoring the WHO (World Health Organization) and PHAC (Public Health Agency of Canada) websites for any new developments and updates.

While the distribution of vaccines against the virus has begun, it is important to continue to be wise and vigilant, and to not panic.

This is a world-wide pandemic and neither racism nor xenophobia will be promoted nor tolerated.

FACTS

Canada is advising all travellers to avoid non-essential travel.

SYMPTOMS AND OCCURENCE

• The elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions (diabetes, respiratory...) are the most susceptible to the virus.
• For the general public, symptoms include fever and coughing.
• A very high rate of those in the general public who catch this virus will have a full recovery.

PREVENTION, CONTROL AND CONTAINMENT

• For those who have symptoms we recommend that they report to an assessment centre in Toronto.
• If you are diagnosed with the virus it is important to subject yourself to self-isolation for at least 14 days.
• It is recommended that you wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds and that this is done frequently.
• Using hand-sanitizer is also recommended.
• When coughing or sneezing please cover your mouth and nose with a disposable tissue or into your arm.
• Carrying sanitizing wipes to wipe down common areas of use is helpful.
• Some people are using masks and gloves to limit their risk of catching the virus.  Masks are mandated in indoor public spaces in Toronto.
• Avoiding large crowds and keeping a distance of about 2 metres of personal space is recommended.  Physical distancing is being enforced throughout Toronto.  You may not be within about 2 metres of another person who does not live at the same address.
• People are asked to STAY AT HOME.
• When greeting somebody, you should not kiss or shake hands – avoiding contact is the best advice.
• Avoid sharing personal items that come into contact with saliva ... eating utensils, drinks, water bottles, towels ...
• Be mindful and respectful to those around you.  The hope is that by following the above measures we will “PLANK THE CURVE” and reduce the increase rate of spread.

TNT TOURS

• All tours and activities are suspended until health authorities allow them to resume.
• We are also referring regularly to information as provided from world and national health organizations and international travel associations (i.e. The Student Youth Travel Association – SYTA) and will continue to update our Plan as further information becomes available.

CANCELLATION

• Full refunds are being offered for those who purchased trips that departed from March 16th and onward.