THIS is what Travel Insurance is for!

Travel insurance has proven a valuable buy for those unfortunate enough to have a cruise canceled thanks to weather or those who have lost their luggage. The New York Times' Practical Traveler - Michelle Higgins - this week wrote about what happens when hurricanes force cruise lines to reroute or cancel trips.

Travel insurance is not, however, your greatest protection if your priority is getting home to your doctor in the event of a travel accident or illness. Many travel insurance policies contain "medical necessity" or "nearest appropriate facility" clauses. That means the insurance company, not you and your doctor, decide if and where you will be transported. Injured in the Caribbean? They may elect to fly you to Miami. Nice hospital... not close to family or friends. Sick in Bali? You may wind up in Singapore... or they may decide you can wait it out and fly home commercial.

Look for a Medical Evacuation Membership that will fly you to the hospital of YOUR choice, as long as your doctor says it's safe and he/she will admit you.

Let the travel insurance folks worry about your luggage, but take your travel health into your own hands.