More notes from the endless phone queue

[serinde]

Though I've had nothing but wonderful experiences with Virgin's UK personnel, the US-based rep I am currently on the phone with is snotty, unhelpful, and treats me like an idiot because she can't correctly articulate the information she is supposed to be giving me.

Update: In the "weirdest airline rules ever" sweepstakes, they can't refund the ticket (that is no surprise) but also they can't give credit for the face value, minus some $75-$100, against a future flight (which is the usual airline answer). No: the only option other than to eat the cost entire was to pay to upgrade to a changeable ticket and decide, on the spot, what dates to fly instead. WTF WTF WTF but anyways it looks like we are now going Apr. 27 - May 3. (I built in an extra day so my PERFECT SCHEDULE!~ works again.)

I just hope I can find good hotel rates. I have a feeling that it will now be into tourist time and therefore we will be shafted, but I will look into that tomorrow, because I am now officially Out Of Bits.

...Oh shit. You guys have a bank holiday or something in there, don't you?

Comments

[http://users.livejournal.com/_nicolai_/]

Yes, May 2nd.
Don't panic. Stuff still mostly works, except banks and government stuff and offices.
Can't you claim on your travel insurance for the cost, as one of you was ill?
Uh, you have annual travel insurance, right?

[syringavulgaris.livejournal.com]

I certainly don't, as my place of employ has the equivalent of "Billy Bob's HR Benefits & Bait Shop" handling this stuff. Have to find out if Steve does--sweh suggested it might be stuffed in the package somewhere.

[http://users.livejournal.com/_nicolai_/]

Well, I mean as a personal thing, not any sort of employment freebie. Even employment travel insurance only usually covers employees on business. Personal annual travel insurance isn't very expensive and covers you for all sorts of travel, even weekends to the country next door.

[http://users.livejournal.com/_nicolai_/]

Oh, and Hotel Nicolai may be accepting bookings during this time, though it is not in London, it is as well-connected as the outskirts of London.

[marnameow.livejournal.com]

Bank holidays are not a problem - less work gets done, but it shouldn't get too much in the way of holiday things.

What you will be wanting to look out for is the election madness sprouting from every corner, as we'll be electioning two days after you go. Mind, I don't believe it's as craaazy as US elections, or anywhere near like.

Oh - if you are stuck for a place to stay, we are fairly central and have a tiiiiny spare room (it fits a double bed and a cat, just about) that you're welcome to stay in.