We have pulled together some useful information on what you can expect regarding flexible booking terms and sanitary measures, from us at PureChalets.

FLEXIBLE TERMS
As we move forward, with France and other European countries moving gently out of their lockdowns, travellers are thinking about their next holiday. We want to offer a greater degree of flexibility on holiday rentals in Samoens, while Covid-19 remains a consideration.

If you are looking at other travel options rather than by plane, then the Alps are accessible by driving - it's only 8 hours by car from Calais to the Northern Alps.

Winter 2020/2021:
We are keeping everything crossed that ski holidays can go ahead next winter. But, if you can’t travel due to restrictions relating to Covid-19, you could look to delay your holiday, and transfer the deposit that you have paid to another date of your own choice. The booking could be transferred to another period in 2021, or up to the end of summer 2022. PureChalets are offering this flexibility free of charge, allowing you to transfer your holiday up to the same value of your original booking.
We would ask you to:

• Email your wish to delay your holiday.

• Inform us at least 8 weeks in advance.

• To communicate at that time, the new requested holiday date.

• Ensure that you have comprehensive travel insurance in place.

PureChalets hope that providing this flexibility will reassure you during this uncertain time, and reduce your financial risk.

ENHANCED CLEANING – IN CHALETS AND APARTMENTS
Whilst the delivery of robust cleaning protocols and processes has always been a crucial priority for us, we are now rising to meet the new cleaning and health and safety challenges presented by Covid-19.
A holiday in the mountains means less exposure to crowds be that be in the summer, or the winter. The advantage of your own personal private chalet space – exclusively for you, with your own fully fitted kitchens – can’t be underestimated. In your own private chalet or apartment, we supply hand washes, alcohol-based hand sanitisers in communal areas and disinfecting wipes available in all bathrooms.
At PureChalets, we have always been fastidious about cleanliness and hygiene, to ensure everything is spotlessly cleaned and sanitised. Our hosts work to detailed cleaning checklists, which cover every cm of every room in a chalet or apartment. We are working to guidelines from the CDC (Centre for Disease Control) which recommends routine cleaning with soap and hot water, followed by the use of disinfectant on frequently touched surfaces.

These include, for example:

We used trusted disinfectant products and whilst cleaning our hosts wear face masks, as well as washing their hands frequently.

As our guests, you can ask to see our cleaning checklists and protocols, should you wish to.

Laundry and linens:

Our bedlinen and towels are washed at a temperature of at least 60°C. We can provide a mid-stay change of linen and towels (free of charge at Chez Bobeau, Chalet Orion, Eridan 1, at a cost at other properties).

Whilst we are cleaning, the rooms are thoroughly aired and ventilated.With regards to soft porous surfaces, we have removed some rugs, cushions and bed throws from our bedrooms, as these cannot be easily washed.

Bathrooms are fully disinfected and bleach used in toilets. We leave disinfectant wipes in the bathrooms.

Living and kitchen areas:

We have removed DVDs from living areas – in Chalet Chez Bobeau, Chalet Orion and Chalet Chouette; we have Smart TVs, where you can access your favourite streaming service.
In the kitchen, we will put through plates, glasses and cutlery in a hot-wash through the dishwasher before you arrive, so you know you are the first person to touch them. We provide plenty of tea towels, so that you can change them regularly.

Check-in:

Many properties have their own electronic door access code, or key boxes, which we can send to you in advance, so that you can self check-in, which avoids face to face contact. We are available to help at all times, via telephone or WhatsApp, or in person if you wish.We will also send you our cleaning protocols by email in advance, as well as welcome information.

Sanitary measures – in Samoens:

France has colour coded its regions to help move out of lockdown, and the Alps area has been classified as “green”. The Alps are open for the stunning mountains to be enjoyed – whether that is on a biking holiday, a hiking adventure, rafting on rivers, or simply to enjoy the lakes, parks and charming villages. Swimming pools are also soon to reopen. Shops are open, with social-distancing being observed, and the wearing of face masks in shops is advised. Most people are wearing reusable, washable masks, which can be easily made at home.

France had three clear stages of easing of the lockdown rules, with cafes, bars and restaurants set to open at the beginning of June. Many restaurants have large outdoor terraces for guests to enjoy al-fresco dining. Tables are to be spaced at least one meter apart, and guests must eat seated, rather than standing at a bar area.