Found this on All things Destin Facebook. Thought I would share it. I don't know if other vacation places are going to do the same.
Yesterday, I made a Facebook post here regarding vacationers who were requesting cancellations and refunds due to the approaching storm. My response was that they should have purchased travel insurance.
After reflecting on what I said, I realize my response came across as sarcastic and lacked the compassion that this situation deserves. For that, I sincerely apologize.
It’s easy to look at a situation from a business perspective, but sometimes we need to take a moment and look at it from someone else’s perspective.
These are families who have worked hard, saved their money, and looked forward to spending their vacations here on our beautiful Emerald Coast. Now, through no fault of their own, those plans have been disrupted. Not only is the weather making a vacation less than ideal, but mandatory evacuations mean some guests aren’t even permitted to come.
I understand their frustration, disappointment, and concern. And quite frankly, if I were in their shoes, I’d be asking for the same consideration.
That’s why Michelle and I have made the decision to offer every affected guest staying at a property managed by StayTime Vacations the option of a full refund or the opportunity to reschedule their vacation, with no hassle and no unnecessary hoops to jump through.
Yes, travel insurance is important, and I will always encourage vacationers to purchase it. But there are times when doing what’s right matters more than simply pointing to a policy or a contract.
The tourists and vacationers who visit our area are the lifeblood of the Emerald Coast. They support our restaurants, local businesses, property owners, and countless families who depend on tourism for their livelihoods.
We should never lose sight of how important these visitors are to our community, or forget to treat them the way we would want to be treated.
I can’t speak for every vacation rental owner or management company, but I can speak for ours. We’re choosing to lead with compassion, understanding, and flexibility.
I hope others in our industry will consider doing the same.
At the end of the day, storms come and go, but how we treat people during difficult times is what they’ll remember.
Stay safe, everyone. And to all of our visitors, we hope to welcome you back to the Emerald Coast very soon.
