Travel Updates and News from iBestTravel
Between flight delays and cancellations worldwide and rapidly changing travel restrictions, it’s an ominous start to 2022 for the travel community.
Navigating lengthy lists of requirements to travel can require a lot of research and patience. For example, entering the Cayman Islands involved waiting for a COVID-19 test in Fort Lauderdale, extending the itinerary unexpectedly.
It would be beneficial to see more international coordination on entry requirements to make travel less unpredictable. However, since coordination may not happen soon and the complexities of COVID-19 and associated measures persist, here’s our resolution for you:
Each Friday, iBestTravel will provide a roundup of travel news from the prior week that you may have missed. We’ll highlight the latest countries changing their travel requirements and share best practices for planning your trip. Furthermore, we’ll include some non-COVID travel news because it’s essential to remember that despite the challenges, the world is still filled with incredible experiences.
Whether you decide to travel or postpone your plans, this recap aims to be a valuable resource for staying informed about travel-related news, enabling you to make well-informed decisions.
So without further ado, let’s delve into what occurred globally this week:
Travel Restriction Changes for the Week Ending January 7
Hong Kong has banned flights from the US, UK, and six other countries to combat the Omicron variant outbreak. In its pursuit of a “Zero COVID” strategy, Hong Kong has implemented some of the strictest border measures worldwide.
The United States Department of State has advised Americans traveling abroad to make contingency plans. Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has urged Americans to avoid Aruba due to various travel concerns. Also, travel by cruise ship has received the CDC’s strongest warning.
Meanwhile, several countries have rolled back pre-arrival testing requirements that were established in response to the Omicron variant’s emergence.
England has removed the pre-arrival testing requirement for fully vaccinated travelers. Prime Minister Boris Johnson deemed it “meaningless” due to the widespread circulation of the Omicron variant. Although post-arrival testing remains, visitors can now utilize the less expensive lateral flow test starting January 9.
Ireland has also eased its rules by eliminating the testing requirement for fully vaccinated individuals.
Those planning Spring Break vacations may find it encouraging that The Bahamas has reversed its pre-arrival PCR test requirement intended to take effect on January 4.
Hawaii is streamlining its travel process. Visitors are no longer required to complete a health questionnaire 24 hours prior to arrival. However, registration with the Safe Travels Program is necessary to upload vaccination information and bypass quarantine. Travelers will receive a QR code once their flight details are confirmed with the program. The state has also reduced the mandatory quarantine period to 5 days in alignment with CDC recommendations.
In Other (Non-COVID) Travel News
National Park Calendar Alert: If you’re considering visiting the US National Parks this year, make sure to note some important dates. The National Parks Service has released its “fee free days” for 2022. Additionally, here’s a helpful guide to enter lotteries for permits required to hike popular spots like Angels Landing.
Thailand’s Maya Bay Reopens: Prior to the pandemic, Thailand closed the renowned Maya Bay in 2018 due to overtourism’s impact on the environment. Now, the bay, famous from the Leonardo DiCaprio film “The Beach,” has reopened with new sustainability initiatives aimed at protecting it from overuse.
Sleeper Trains are Making a Comeback: With sustainability gaining momentum, sleeper trains are increasingly popular once again, offering an eco-friendly and affordable means to explore Europe. This week, another train line announced a new night train route linking Amsterdam, Berlin, and Prague, with tickets set to go on sale in April for summer 2022 departures.
As we progress through the new year, feedback is welcome! If there are specific topics or questions you’d like addressed in future updates, feel free to reach out via email.
