Friday Around the Planet: Latest Travel News
Welcome to Friday Around the Planet, where we wrap up the travel-related news you might have missed this week as requirements and restrictions in countries worldwide rapidly change.
The CDC updated its travel advisories and added 22 additional countries—including the Bahamas, Australia, and Israel—to the list of countries it advises Americans not to travel to. Those countries join popular places in Europe like France, Spain, Portugal, and the UK that are already on the list.
The Level-4 status designates countries with extremely high rates of COVID-19 infection, specifically those with more than 500 cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people.
(Awkward moment: the United States fits that definition with current figures indicating more than 1,600 cases per 100,000.)
If you’re headed to a destination currently on the CDC’s list and are wondering about travel plans, review some considerations you might find useful while making that decision.
Meanwhile, here’s more news you might have missed around the planet for the week of January 21, 2022.
Changes in COVID-19 Travel Restrictions
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, consider getting your booster shot if it’s due. Governor David Ige informed local media that the state is in the early stages of considering a plan to require proof of a booster shot to bypass its mandatory 5-day quarantine. While nothing concrete has been announced yet, updates are expected soon.
Conversely, several countries are rolling back their COVID-19 requirements.
Across the UK, COVID restrictions are set to ease. Local media reports indicate that England may remove second-day testing requirements ahead of the upcoming half-term break. The country has already reduced pre-arrival testing and mask mandates, along with vaccine passport requirements in recent weeks. By lifting this final measure, government leaders aim to boost travelers’ confidence during family vacations.
Although nothing is official yet, a formal announcement on travel restrictions is expected soon.
The Netherlands has also eased some restrictions that were previously implemented when cases surged in December. Non-essential businesses, such as retail, hair salons, and gyms, are now open. While hotels are welcoming guests, restaurants and bars remain closed for the moment. The government plans to review its lockdown measures on January 25.
Starting in February, Thailand is resuming its Test-and-go tourism program. This initiative allows fully vaccinated visitors to skip the seven-day quarantine requirement by providing a negative COVID-19 test on their first and fifth days in the country.
As we continue to offer insights into how COVID-19 related restrictions might affect your travel experience, we are gathering reports about various destinations. This week, a piece focused on traveling to Belize highlights the current on-ground conditions.
Australia remains closed to international tourists while accommodating students and working travelers. In response to a significant labor shortage due to the pandemic, Australia is waiving the visa application fee for international students and those intending to work while visiting. Details about applying for this waiver have yet to be revealed, but potential savings include A$495 ($356 USD) for working travelers and A$630 ($453 USD) for international students.
Other News from Around the Planet
If you’ve ever imagined what it would be like to spend money like Jeff Bezos, consider exploring the most expensive luxury hotel suite. It’s always good to dream ahead for your next adventure.
On a more budget-friendly note, if you enjoy upcycling, Berlin is a treasure trove of flea markets and second-hand shops. Notable finds await in Berlin’s vibrant marketplaces. This collection highlights Berlin’s best flea markets.
After the last couple of years working from home, a digital detox sounds refreshing. If you’ve ever fantasized about unplugging for a day, consider our social media manager Amanda McCadams’ experience during her digital detox in Asheville, North Carolina.
Lastly, if you’ve seen the recent images from Tonga following the underwater volcanic eruption and resulting tsunami, consider exploring organizations that are helping with disaster relief.
