With more than a million vaccinations per day, but Covid-19 still very much a part of our lives, travellers are wondering, “Should I stay or should I go?” It’s not a decision I can make for you, but I am certainly here to answer whatever questions you have in planning your vacation. Ultimately, it comes down to your comfort level.
First of All, Where CAN I Go?
As for where you can go right now, I’m on top of that ever-changing list. The major changes lately include the closure of French overseas departments such as French Polynesia, St. Barth’s, and the French half of St. Martin. Take these off the list of places you can go, and there are still options. Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. The Dominican Republic. Egypt. Mexico. Kenya. Turkey.
Related: Experience Egypt and the Return of Tourism
It’s also possible to visit the UK and Ireland without the long quarantines that had been part of their protocols since last spring. You still have to have a negative PCR test within 72 hours of arrival and isolate for at least five days. Then, you’ll need to have another negative test to explore either country, but that’s shorter than their original 14 day quarantine. Children 6 and under for Ireland and 10 and under for the UK are exempt from testing. Botswana has joined the list of safari destinations open, requiring a negative PCR test within 72 hours of departure.
If I’m Vaccinated, Am I Exempt?
Whether or not you are exempt due to being vaccinated depends on the country you plan to visit. Most are currently still requiring a test even if you have been vaccinated.
As for the US, those who are fully vaccinated are exempt from the CDC’s quarantine protocols. They do, however, still have to present a negative test taken within 72 hours of the return flight. Alternately, travellers can present proof from a medical professional that they have tested positive within the previous three months. (And are, obviously, recovered.)
Should I Stay or Should I Go?
If you want to travel in 2021, I’m here to take the stress off your plate and ensure you meet all testing requirements and timelines. I also recommend that even if you think you might want to travel this year, you should get something booked. Cancellation policies are flexible and space is filling up fast. It’s better to have a reservation you can reschedule if necessary – rather than want to go and have no space. Airlines that previously had rigid rules and hefty fees associated with changing flights have become much more flexible. There is a lot less financial risk in booking dates you might have to change later.
What About Next Year?
If you’re planning to travel during peak demand times such as spring break and over the holidays, it’s a good idea to get the space while you can. Believe it or not, a 2023 world cruise sold out in a matter of hours. So, chances are, your favourite resort will fill up over the festive season.
Travelling in 2021
Though Canada’s regulations might prevent large, foreign-flagged ships from cruising in Alaska this season, there are potential solutions to that problem in the works. There are also U.S.-flagged small ships that can still bring all the wonders of Alaska without needing to stop in Canada, plus land-based options.
This might just be the summer to visit Alaska without the crowds. Alaska also recently announced that they will no longer require a negative covid test for entry into the state.
Protecting Your Travel Investment
I’m also here to make sure if you do plan a trip, your investment is protected. There are health and financial considerations, and we want to keep you informed every step of the way.
Related: Health and Safety on Your Next Trip
Medevac services such as MedJet can get you transported back home in case of a medical emergency. Covac offers coverage for getting you back home if you have a positive PCR test abroad and can’t board a commercial flight. Travelex now treats a positive test like any other illness, meaning you can be covered if you can’t go on your trip or can’t return home in the originally planned time frame. Travelex also has coverage available for those with work-related disruptions such as being laid off or being called back to work during a previously approved vacation time.
Things are still changing rapidly, and we hope to be able to soon travel the world freely. Even then, destinations might require proof of vaccination, and I’ll be on top of making sure you have what you need, then, too. Whenever you feel up to traveling, reach out to me.