A Month-Long Rescue in Portugal | Redpoint Travel Protection
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senior woman riding her electric mountain bike between olive trees

Senior Cyclist’s Medical Evacuation From Portugal

How Redpoint Helped an Injured Cyclist Return Home from Portugal

A Month-Long Mission

Cycling trips through Europe are a dream for many travelers. From scenic coastal roads to charming villages, the journey offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Portugal, with its stunning Atlantic coastline and rolling hills, has become a favorite for cycling enthusiasts. But even the best-planned adventures can encounter unexpected challenges, which is why having reliable Travel Insurance for Europe is so important.

This is the story of how Redpoint Travel Protection supported a couple in their 70s on a cycling vacation in Portugal, a journey that began with a minor accident and turned into a month-long mission to bring them safely back to Arizona.

aerial view of Lisbon

The First Incident: A Fractured Rib

While exploring the picturesque village of São Pedro de Moel, the couple experienced a minor fall into a roadside ditch. The wife was unharmed, but her husband feared he might have fractured a rib.

They contacted Redpoint right away. Our team quickly advised them on the best nearby medical facility and stayed in close contact to monitor the situation. After receiving treatment, the couple felt confident enough to continue their cycling adventure. Thanks to the support of Redpoint, they were able to get back on the road knowing help was only a message away, highlighting the value of travel insurance for active travelers.

A Serious Setback: A Broken Pelvis

Just two days later, our team received another call. This time, the situation was much more serious. The husband had suffered another fall, and local medics determined that he had a broken pelvis requiring surgery before he could safely return home.

Redpoint immediately dispatched one of our own medics to Portugal to be by his side. Our medic worked directly with the local medical team, ensuring he received the highest possible standard of care. They even assessed alternative hospitals nearby but ultimately determined that the best course of action was to remain at the current facility. In one instance, our medic personally obtained specialized medical equipment needed for the surgery, an example of the lengths we go to for our clients.

Throughout this challenging time, our team provided 24/7 support not only to the injured traveler but also to his wife. We arranged comfortable accommodations near the hospital so she could remain close, checked in multiple times daily via WhatsApp, and offered peace of mind during a stressful ordeal. Our care extends beyond the patient—it’s about protecting the entire travel experience, which is why many clients choose our coverage.

Recovery and the Journey Home

The surgery was a success, but the journey wasn’t over. To ensure continuity of care, Redpoint sent out a second medic to monitor the man’s recovery and to accompany the couple on their trip back to the U.S. After nearly a month in Portugal, the day came when the husband was finally cleared to travel.

With his wife by his side and a Redpoint medic accompanying them the entire way, the couple safely returned to Arizona, where he continues his recovery. This seamless transport home was made possible by their Cavalry policy, which includes emergency evacuation and medical transport all the way back to their home city.

 

Why Choose Redpoint?

This story is a reminder that travel, no matter how well planned, can be unpredictable. Whether you’re embarking on a European cycling adventure, a cultural trip to Portugal, or any international journey, having the right coverage is essential.

Redpoint Travel Protection offers:

  • 24/7 real-human support
  • Medical evacuation and transport home
  • Care for both travelers and their companions
  • Peace of mind knowing that professional assistance is available at every step

For this couple, Redpoint turned a potentially frightening situation into a safe and supported journey. Whether you’re considering travel insurance for a trip to Portugal, coverage for cycling adventures, or protection for older travelers, Redpoint ensures you and your loved ones are never alone.

Airplane landing at sunset