Jun 20

Jun 20 Post Pandemic Travel Guide

Katiana

BostonYPA Member KJ, owner of Trips Travel Agency, guest blogs this week to share everything we need to know about traveling post pandemic.

This year much of the world is open to US travelers, with most requiring proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test.

We were hoping to know if the major travel route between the U.S. and the U.K would open up on Thursday but so far no news. At the current moment travel restrictions lie on both sides, the U.K. requiring a 10 day quarantine upon arrival and 2 negative Covid tests while in quarantine. On the other side of the pond the U.S. still has an outright ban on U.K. nationals entering the country that has been in place since January 2021.
In the meantime no states in the US require proof of vaccination or negative Covid test; Hawaii dropped their rules on June 15, 2021. Many places such as theme parks ask that you self attest ( aka honor system) that you've not been exposed or have any current Covid symptoms.
If you need more information on travel rules, check out our blog post for 2021 travel, with links to the official sources for many destinations. - https://www.tripstravelagency.com/blog/2021travel

Additionally here are some steps to planning the perfect trip

Check to see if you have airline credits- this year they are worth dollar for dollar
Check if you need proof of vaccination or a negative Covid test. Also verify which Covid test is accepted for each destination.
Check Passport expiration, if flying internationally
Verify the amenities you require for your stay are still available i.e. daily housekeeping, spa, room service, daily breakfast, etc.
Protect your investment with Travel Insurance - read the fine print, not all travel insurance is created equal. If you want something that will cover you for anything and everything look for a Cancel For Any Reason policy, usually these policies will cover you for 70-80% of the trip. If you want something that covers you for 100% of your travel expenses ask your travel agent for guidance as there are a few options out there.

If you're taking an international trip remember these two important steps:

US passports- Passport agency is taking about 10-12 weeks from when they receive it to process your application, so please plan accordingly for international travel

On that note if you're renewing, remember the passport card is not sufficient for international travel, you need the passport book.

Returning to the US- You'll need a negative Covid test 72 hours before returning to the US. Many resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean offer this as a complimentary amenity. If you're traveling outside of this area ask your hotel concierge or Airbnb host where you can get the test done and the cost.