Do you remember the excitement of booking your next holiday and the anticipation as it drew nearer? The good news is holiday planning is possible again, provided you do your homework.
As lockdown rules are slowly being lifted many people are asking whether it’s safe to book your holiday, either abroad or at home.
We’ve endured the pandemic for years now, and no travel or holidays has become a frustrating norm. But can you wait any longer before you take a much needed break with your partner or family? And is it safe to book a trip or wait?
Let’s explore your travel options and the dos and don´ts of booking your next holiday.
Where can you go in holiday?
With the world slowly opening up after some several lockdowns and vaccine rollout underway, many American travel-enthusiasts are looking to book their trip again. However, one should be very attentive regarding the travel restrictions.
Since January 2021, according to the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, all passengers aged 2 and above arriving by air into the USA from any foreign country are prevented from entry unless they have either a negative pre-departure test result or documentation of recovery from COVID-19 provided by a licensed health care provider or public health official. It is also recommended that you quarantine for at least 7 days after arriving in the USA, and to take a COVID-19 test 3-5 days after arrival.
The important thing is to check the country you want to visit entry requirements as you still may not be allowed in. In fact, there are different countries from which travel is barred for an indefinite time as of April 30, 2021, such as Europe’s Schengen area, including France, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, … the United Kingdom, Ireland, Brazil, … and the list goes on.
What are the risks of booking a trip now?
There’s nothing to stop you booking a holiday from the UK to one of the green list countries, but you should be cautious and be aware of the potential risks. These are the things to consider when booking a trip:
– look for flexible booking policies that offer refunds or credit if your trip is cancelled, whether you book a package holiday, a hotel or an Airbnb
– read the small print when booking flights – many operators now offer no charge flight changes
– check the current quarantine and social distancing rules in the country you want to visit (you may find yourself sunbathing in a mask!)
– are your travel plans flexible? – some companies are offering vouchers to alternative destinations if restrictions change
– will you need proof you’ve been vaccinated for the country you’re visiting?
– will everyone in your party have been vaccinated?
Of course, you might prefer a staycation in the US. As one of the largest and most diverse countries in the world, The United States boast an amazing amount of tourist destinations ranging from the skyscrapers of New York and Chicago, the natural wonders of Yellowstone and Alaska to the sunny beaches of California, Florida, and Hawaii.
And let’s face it, sometimes the kids don’t care where they are! Why not consider hiring a car and visiting those places in the US you’ve never got around to seeing?
Will there be good deals for holidays?
In general, prices seem to be rising, as travel companies seek to recoup the money they’ve lost over the last 18 months.
But don´t despair, there are travel bargains out there for you to enjoy a holiday with the kids or a romantic getaway with your other half. The secret is to do your research and consider new things.
Perhaps you’ve never fancied a package holiday – now might be the time to try one if you’re searching for cheap deals. Or what about considering an Airbnb for a family holiday or a getaway with your partner? If you want a flexible holiday renting your own accommodation and a car could be the perfect solution.
Booking a holiday is nothing like it used to be, but with careful planning and understanding of the requirements, you should be able to enjoy a well-earned break with family or friends.
To efficiently plan your holiday, remember to regularly take a look at the news related to Covid on the official coronavirus news site to follow the progress of the lifting of health measures.
Travelling freely in Europe with the health passport
Since 1 July 2021, to travel within the European Union, you must present the “EU digital Covid certificate”. This document, which can be presented in paper form or via a QR code, facilitates travel in Europe thanks to the mutual recognition of the 27 EU member states.
You will be asked for it when you are checked in the EU member states, regardless of the means of transport used: train, plane, car.
Your sanitary pass will also be asked when you go to activities and leisure facilities, health centers or even shopping centers.
For more information on its application, please visit the website of the government of the country you are travelling to.