It’s hard not to love international travel. There’s just something about crossing borders that boosts adrenaline and stimulates the brain. Each country has a unique atmosphere, curious cuisine, great views, and a unique culture. Whether it’s driving from Seattle to Vancouver, a cruise from Miami to the Caribbean, or traveling from Los Angeles to Iceland, every trip has the potential to help us learn, love and grow. However, due to epidemiological precautions, most of us are close to home. And while many countries are still considered high-risk for the transmission of COVID-19, other locations have seen a sufficient decrease in cases and a rise in vaccinations. There are about 100 countries now accepting travelers with US passports, and the list changes every day. If you have been fully vaccinated, free of COVID-19And, ready to endure more uncertainty than usual, now is the time to reflect on that trip you dreamed of during lockdown.
Knowing which countries are open to US travelers, including the level of COVID-19 risk and the rules about what is required to enter (and re-enter the US) is as complex as a calculus. The US Department of State Good place to start. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also provides guidance on International Destinations. Check with the government at your intended destination. Don’t forget that you’ll need proof of a COVID-19 PCR test to re-enter the United States (or proof that you’ve already had it).
There is no doubt that planning international travel is now more stressful than it was in pre-pandemic times. But when you reach your destination, you may find fewer crowds and a more welcoming tourism sector. Here are some tips for planning your next international adventure.
Nick Fox
1. Make plans early
There are fewer international flights than ever before as airlines have been curtailed during the pandemic. Also, it can be difficult to find flights with which you can use bonus points. If possible, be flexible with your travel goal. Off the beaten path adventure might be a better option than a classic tourist destination.
2. Know before you go (and get alerts after you arrive)
Registration with the US Department of State Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (a step). Not only will they inform you of local situations that may affect your safety, but they will know how to reach you in the event of an emergency. US Department of Consular Affairs Facebook page It is also a great resource for local affairs.
3. Educate yourself
Read about your destination. This means more than just checking out the Michelin or Lonely Planet guides. If you’re heading to Jordan, start reading Jordan Times. If you are heading to London, times Good place to start. There are English editions of newspapers around the world, from Peru and Pakistan to Jamaica and Japan.
4. Passport examination
Most countries require that your passport not only be valid, but that it has a window of six months before expiration. Most people can renew their US passports online.
5. Travel Insurance
You can take out insurance to cover everything from the cost of replacing lost baggage to ex-Special Operations extraction from Mount Everest Base Camp. Travel insurance also helps if you get sick in a foreign country and need medical help. world nomads It is a favorite for international travelers because it offers low cost plans (under $100) to most international destinations. global rescue Provides field rescue, local medical support and a 24/7 hotline.
Marek Duransky
6. Tailor-made tours
Even if your travel pieces compete with pieces Bear Grylls And Rick Steves, spending time with an expert will not only enrich your experience but save time, money, and the possibility of getting into a dangerous situation. You may not need assistance for your entire trip, but consider booking a guide for your day or two. The Adventure Travel Trade Association ATTA has an impressive solid list of tour operators who can help you with everything from a self-guided trip to a local driver and personal guide.
7. Emotional rescue
Any travel can be stressful, but even more so during a pandemic. Everything from parking your car to going through security to claiming your luggage can cause anxiety. Schedule flights early in the day in case your connection gets lost or lost. Pack early and remember that the shopping opportunity may be different than your last supervised trip. Subscribe to WhatsApp and Facetime so you can message and call the toll-free number to stay in touch with family and friends. There are plenty of resources online if you’re struggling with homesickness or culture shock.
9. Meds matter
If you need medication, plan to bring enough for an additional two weeks in case your return flight is delayed due to quarantine, weather, nature or a national strike. Always pack your tablets in hand luggage, and double-check with the local embassy to make sure what you take is OK to cross the border. And don’t forget the face masks and hand sanitizer.
10. Planning for the future
The things that happen. Stay connected to local news and plan for the unexpected. Download at least one rideshare app available at your destination and carry enough cash to call a taxi. Make sure someone at home has a copy of the itinerary and shares common expectations about when you’ll be in touch. If you’re traveling between several countries, make sure you get the right picks.
11. Document printing
Computers, cell phones, and smartwatches are great for navigation and information. But electronic devices break, get lost, stolen, or fail when there is no power source. Traveling with a portable charger makes sense, but bring a paper copy of your itinerary, passport, vaccine history, and PCR test.
Valeria Polakovska
12. Take it easy
Even if you’re a professional athlete competing in a Red Bull event, avoid taxing local search and rescue groups or hospitals. Mountain biking, cliff jumping, climbing, and country travel are all fun, but pushing the limit doesn’t just affect you, it could affect an already overburdened medical system.
13. Don’t bend
Social media keeps us all connected, but enjoy your trip and post after you get home Avoid real-time posts because you don’t want the world to know you’re far from your home or apartment (addresses are easy to find online), or where you spend the night during Holiday. Don’t forget, not everyone has the luxury of traveling. Instead of just bragging about the spoils of travel, work on educating and upgrading to keep these opportunities open.
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Joseph
