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  • The Netherlands Drops All Entry Requirements And Travel Restrictions

    The Netherlands Drops All Entry Requirements And Travel Restrictions

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    Effective September 17th, 2022, the Dutch Government has made the decision to get rid of all Covid-19 travel restrictions and requirements. This decision applies to all travelers, including those traveling into the Netherlands from outside the EU/Schengen area. The Netherlands kept their Covid protocols for travelers in place much longer than the majority of European countries. However, as of September 17th, the country has officially taken its name off the list of the last European countries that still have entry requirements.

    Tourist boat in amsterdam canal with buildings in background

    Currently, Spain is the last major European country with entry requirements still in place. As other long-time holdouts like the Netherlands drop their final remaining protocols, perhaps Spain will soon follow.

    Who Is Most Affected? What Does This Mean For Travelers?

    Until recently, the Netherlands had a complete ban on unvaccinated travelers from countries like America or Canada. As a result, this decision directly affects unvaccinated travelers from both countries. Before this decision, Americans and Canadians had to be fully vaccinated in order to visit the Netherlands. Visitors from EU/Schengen countries were allowed to enter the Netherlands without restrictions. Still, the country did not let up on protocols for any other travelers.

    Amsterdam canal with building reflecting in the water

    September 17th’s decision means that unvaccinated travelers from all countries, including Americans and Canadians, will be able to enter the Netherlands without proof of vaccination or evidence of a negative Covid test. The country does not have any mask requirements in place, and all venues are open and operating normally. Traveling to the Netherlands now will offer an experience much like before the pandemic turned the world upside down.

    Netherlands tulip fields

    Travel Chaos, Know Before You Go

    This news will likely pique travelers’ interest, and some may be ready to book their next ticket out. Most travelers who visit the Netherlands go to the nation’s capital, Amsterdam. Indeed, the city was ranked as the 26th most popular city in the world in 2019 when it welcomed 8.84 million tourists. Many people wanted to visit Amsterdam this summer even when the vaccine requirement was still in place. Unfortunately, the city’s airport was woefully underprepared. As a result, Amsterdam was the European capital of travel chaos this summer.

    Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

    Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport had a rough summer, and it doesn’t look like it will get much better for travelers interested in visiting this fall. The airport announced on Friday, September 16th, that it would reduce daily passenger counts by 18% through the end of October due to its labor shortage. The airport is one of the busiest in the world and is a significant transfer hub for many major airlines. However, the country recently made the decision to cut flights by almost 20% compared to pre-pandemic levels in an effort to combat climate change and get away from its “transfer hub” reputation.

    Busy Airport Concept, Amsterdam Schiphol, The Netherlands

    An Odd Decision

    Amsterdam is a city filled with beautiful canals, 16th-century architecture, and of course – bikes. There are plenty of different things to do. Still, for many, the first thought after hearing about Amsterdam is of Marijuana. Famed for its lax rules regarding cannabis consumption well before most other countries in the world, Amsterdam has long been regarded as a haven for cannabis enthusiasts. Indeed, as much as 30% of all tourists that visit Amsterdam visit one of its coffee shops with the sole intention of purchasing cannabis, and it’s big business for the area.

    amsterdam coffee shop canal

    That is why a recent push by the city’s Mayor may come as a surprise. The Mayor, Femke Halsema, intends to make cannabis purchases in the city a residents-only privilege. The plan has yet to be implemented. Still, travelers visiting with cannabis as one of their main reasons should keep an eye on the news to ensure they remain unaffected. This isn’t a set-in-stone change but is something being seriously considered – making it worth keeping tabs on.

    amsterdam bulldog coffee shop

    Getting There

    American travelers interested in visiting Amsterdam can fly direct from 20 U.S. cities, while Canadians can fly direct from 5. Travelers from both countries should be weary when flying back, as Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport has had extremely long lines this summer. Go to the airport much earlier than you would have in the past, and try to avoid checking a bag if possible.

    amsterdam city view

    Travelers flying to Amsterdam from Canada should be extra careful if they fly out of Toronto Pearson or Montreal Trudeau airports. Both were recently ranked as the first and second worst airports in the world for flight delays.

    U.S. Cities That Fly Non-Stop To Amsterdam

    • Boston (BOS)
    • New York (EWR)
    • Philadelphia (PHL)
    • New York City (JFK)
    • Detroit (DTW)
    • Washington (IAD)
    • Minneapolis (MSP)
    • Chicago (ORD)
    • Orlando (MCO)
    • Atlanta (ATL)
    • Miami (MIA)
    • Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
    • Austin (AUS)
    • Houston (IAH)
    • Salt Lake City (SLC)
    • Seattle (SEA)
    • Portland (PDX)
    • Los Angeles (LAX)
    • San Francisco (SFO)
    • Las Vegas (LAS)
    Amsterdam,Sunset,City,Skyline,At,Canal,Waterfront,,Amsterdam,,Netherlands

    Canadian Cities That Fly Non-Stop To Amsterdam

    • Montreal (YUL)
    • Toronto (YYZ)
    • Calgary (YYC)
    • Edmonton (YEG)
    • Vancouver (YVR)

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

    ↓ Join the community ↓

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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  • Top 10 Weird Fines Travelers Keep Getting Surprised By

    Top 10 Weird Fines Travelers Keep Getting Surprised By

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    Why You Need To Take Extra Care When Visiting These Popular Tourist Spots

    Traveling should be a relatively carefree experience for us all. But unfortunately, the world’s most popular tourist spots don’t always operate in the same manner as the towns and cities we come from. From the ancient city of Rome to the English countryside, rules and laws vary drastically, turning what could seem like an innocent act into an expensive fine.

    man talking to police

    But before you get annoyed at what sometimes seems like heavy-handed rules, remember they’re almost all in place to help keep these places as wonderful as they always were or to make living there as comfortable as possible for the locals. Always check local laws before your trip and help keep them amazing.

    Here are ten of the strangest fines out there!

    Sitting Down In Venice

    Venice made headlines this month after two, as the mayor called them “idiots,” power surfed through the city’s canals. While both men were justifiably fined, it’s doubtful that most of us would be doing something similar. What you may not know is that sitting in some places is against the rules.

    sitting in venice

    In an effort to reduce crowding, sitting is banned in hotspots like St Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. The city almost went even further by banning sitting anywhere on the ground within the city, punishable by a $580 fine! While the full city ban never came to fruition, the previous hotspot ban remains. And definitely don’t eat or drink while hanging out there.

    Venice is easily one of the most strict cities in the world for tourists, mainly due to its fragile structure and history. You can also be fined there for going topless, feeding the pigeons, riding a bike, swimming in the canals, and littering. Most of those have hefty fines of over 300 euros.

    Italy as a whole is packed with similar rules. Florence bans eating in public places at certain times while being in Roman fountains is also illegal.

    Drinking in Public In Amsterdam

    This is an important one. Americans often have a distorted view of Amsterdam. Its seemingly relaxed stance on recreational drugs and its famous red-light district lead many to believe the city is the perfect party town. In reality, the city and its residents view Amsterdam as a far more chilled-out city. All of those seemingly wild aspects of its legal system are actually heavily regulated, and you can be fined heavily for disrespecting them.

    alcohol sign in amsterdam

    Drinking or being drunk in public is not tolerated, especially for tourists, and the same goes for recreational substances. That’s what the cafes are for. Even in the red-light district, taking pictures of the workers is illegal. It’s a fully regulated industry, and regardless of your personal view, it has to be respected as such.

    Taking Sand or Rocks As Souvenirs From Many Places

    While that empty beach you found in Greece may be held fondly in your memory, be careful about taking a physical souvenir. Beaches across the world, in places like Hawaii, Greece, Italy, and the UK, have protected status for an array of different reasons, and taking sand or rocks from them is a punishable offense.

    sardinian beach

    One French couple found this out the hard way in Sardinia when they tried to take 88 lbs of sand back home. They were arrested and faced punishment as high as six years in prison and a $3000 fine. While their case was extreme in volume, taking even a small amount can get you a fine. As a rule of thumb, just don’t do it. Opt for a postcard instead.

    Chewing Gum In Singapore (kind of)

    While the city-state of Singapore has a multitude of strict rules that help keep its pristine appearance in place, the chewing gum ban is easily one of its best-known. It’s just one law brought in by the mastermind behind Singapore’s meteoric rise, Lee Kuan Yew, who believed heavily in tidiness and cleanliness. His goal was to create “a first-world oasis in a third-world region,” as it was at the time.

    It didn’t take long for Singapore to go above and beyond most western nations in many aspects of daily life. Singapore functions like a well-oiled machine, and in Lee’s opinion, it started with tiny things like gum. While it’s technically not illegal to chew it, the sale of gum was banned, and importing or smuggling it into the country was punishable with thousands of dollars and even caning.

    The reality is that the risk comes from the country’s steep littering ban, which gum is viewed as a particularly annoying type of, thanks to people’s tendency to stick it places. To avoid smuggling rules, tourists can only bring in two packs for individual use.

    Using a phone while driving in the UK

    This is less weird and more common sense, but it’s something Americans will get caught on and pay heavily for doing so. Despite there being laws in the States regarding phone use while driving, the general consensus is far more relaxed than elsewhere. Some states still don’t have outright bans, and some even allow texting at the wheel. It’s not uncommon to pass ten cars on the interstate and see seven drivers glancing down at their phones.

    uk police car

    In the UK, however, phone use while driving is taboo. Police are extremely vigilant when enforcing the law and can pull a vehicle over if they suspect a phone may have been used in any manner. The penalties can be huge and are set to get even stricter this year. Thanks to strict enforcement, UK drivers as a whole are far more respectful of the rules.

    So be careful if you grab a rental on your next trip. Leave the phone in your pocket. And maybe take the habit back to the states, where almost 400 thousand injuries occur every year thanks to texting and driving.

     Swearing in Australia

    Despite Aussie’s reputation for dropping some heavy swear words on a regular basis, it’s possible to land a fine and even jail time if you’re caught doing it in the wrong place. According to the law, offensive language can’t be used “near a public place or a school.” In some states, the maximum fine is $21,720, and community service or, worse, jail time could be tacked on.

    Those punishments are extremely unlikely, but it’s possible because swearing can sometimes be classed as disorderly and violent behavior. That usually involves some kind of threatening behavior as opposed to a casual swear word at the park, but it still pays to be aware of your surroundings. If there are a lot of kids or families around, maybe dial it back just to stay on the safe side.

    Hiking naked in Switzerland

    While it might seem like a funny idea to grab a memorable photo at the top of a mountain in the Swiss Alps, it’s best to keep your kit on. The Swiss government doesn’t find it funny at all and will fine you $100 for doing so. One man back in 2011 tried to fight his ban but failed in court. The rise of social media has made it even easier to go after anyone who does so, so think again before doing so.

    naked in the alps

    The law emerged after a group of German nudists took a hiking trip, much to the dismay of a local alpine village, who promptly voted to ban the act. 

    Running out of gas on the Autobahn

    The Autobahn is one of the most famous motorways in the world, and many rent a car in Germany just to try out speed-limitless driving. However, thanks to the high speeds found on the road, stopping is illegal, whether you run out of gas or not.

    That makes it super important to keep track of your gas-guzzling while here. Although the fine is only around $34, that’s money you could be spending on a few beers in Munich that night!

    Wearing Camoflague in the Caribbean and other countries

    While that wonderful pair of camo shorts (are they really, though?) might seem perfect for your next trip to the Caribbean, you might want to think again. Wearing camo is actually illegal in a number of countries, including Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Nigeria.

    The reason for this is pretty simple – camo is reserved for the official military only. Some just want to mark the distinction between civilians, while others view it as a symbolic reminder of uprisings and that wearing it might encourage that again.

     While you might not be fined, you’ll probably say goodbye to the offending piece. It’s not uncommon for them to get removed from checked bags too, so if your bag is late and you had camo in there, you know why.

    Public displays of affection Dubai

    This rule applies to many countries in the Middle East, but as Dubai is one of the most popular destinations in the world, it’s important to know that for all its modern trimmings, it’s still a drastically different place.

    hand holding in dubai

    While significant progress has been made, evident in dropping the law regarding non-married couples living together, public displays of affection can still land you in trouble. While it’s not technically illegal, there are some grey areas that make it more complicated.

    While hugging or holding hands can be acceptable, it cannot be construed in any way as sexual. What that means is a subjective opinion could impact your time there. If someone complains to the police that you were being sexual with another person, you could wind up in trouble. As a rule of thumb, avoid it where possible.

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

    ↓ Join the community ↓

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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  • These Are The Countries In Latin America With No Travel Restrictions This Fall

    These Are The Countries In Latin America With No Travel Restrictions This Fall

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    It may seem as if the world has already moved on from Covid at this point, but in reality, some of the most popular destinations continue enacting entry rules and delaying the resumption of normal tourism. As we have detailed before, on our side of the pond, the list can be quite extensive, especially if you’re looking to explore Latin America heading into the fall. Luckily, there are countries in the region that have scrapped all Covid rules already and are eager to host Americans again.

    On this article, you will find out which ones exactly.

    Beachgoers Enjoying A Beach Day In Acapulco, Mexico

    Latin America has been abandoning its harsh anti-Covid policies this year after struggling with repeated viral surges for two and a half years, becoming at one point the world’s hotspot for infections. In fact, there was zero coordination throughout most of the crisis, with countries like Brazil and Colombia remaining relatively open for tourism while others like Chile and Argentina shut down borders completely.

    Fortunately, the situation is changing, albeit slowly, and there is a clear reopening trend being observed now that Covid has subsided:

    Americans Can Travel Requirement-Free To These Latin American Countries

    Guadalajara City Cathedral, Mexico

    Latin America is a personal favorite among Americans going abroad. Whether it’s the crystal clear beaches of Mexico’s Pacific Coast, on its northernmost edge, or Argentina’s deep south, where our civilization meets the vast wilderness of the Antarctica continent, this geopolitical region is full of both natural and man-made wonders.

    It is also struggling to fully resume tourist now that Covid and its offspring have been largely contained. A majority of countries belonging to the group are yet to reinstate their pre-pandemic normality, in stark contrast with Europe, where only three destinations continue enforcing border rules (including the Netherlands, where unvaccinated Americans are banning from entering).

    Vaccine Pass Displayed On A Phone

    In spite of relying heavily on tourist dollars, Latin American nations have opted for a tougher approach, with Brazil only recently opening up to non-immunized travelers, though they are still required to get tested ahead of flying. Similarly, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Panama, Nicaragua and Honduras all follow the ‘vaccine or test’ model.

    Generally, Americans must produce a valid vaccination certificate, in most cases with a WHO-backed vaccine, or alternatively, when unvaccinated, be able to present a negative Covid test issued up to a day, 48 or 72 hours (depending on the rules at their destination) when crossing the border. Considering how far we’ve come regarding Covid, it sounds pretty obsolete, right?

    Young Woman Checking Her Boarding Pass Inside A U.S. Passport At The Airport

    But it is the truth: most of Latin America has not returned to their pre-2020 state of normality. On the other hand, these select few Latin American countries below have been welcoming Americans irrespective of vaccination status:

    1. Argentina
    2. Cuba
    3. Costa Rica
    4. Dominican Republic
    5. El Salvador
    6. Overseas territories of France in the Americas: French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France)*
    7. Panama
    8. Guatemala
    9. Mexico

    *French Guiana is an integral part of France, but it is included on this list seeing that it is located in the American continent and it is a territory where a Latin language (in this case, French) is spoken.

    The list includes restriction-free destinations in all of the Americas, be it North, Central, South, or insular nations, as long as a Latin language is spoken.

    Traveler In A Dramatic Setting In Southern Argentina, Close To Antarctica

    Less Than 10 Latin American Countries Have Reopened Fully

    We define as Latin American all those countries where a language originating from Latin, such as the widely-spoken Spanish, Portuguese or French, are official languages. This definition is merely based on Language, hence, it does not include nations where English, Dutch, or any Western Germanic and thus non-Latin languages are spoken, even when they are located geographically in Central or South America (ex. Suriname).

    As can bee seen above, only nine nations and/or regions in Latin America have lifted all of their Covid curbs, including the French Guiana, an overseas territory of France bordering Brazil. In all six, Americans are no longer required to present any health-related documentation, nor experience bureaucratic hurdles when traveling.

    Woman Relaxing In Hammock In Front Of A Tropical Beach, Unspecified Location

    In sum, U.S. citizens visiting Argentina, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, any and all French territories in the Americas (or Metropolitan France over in Europe), Panama, Guatemala and Mexico are not subject to:

    • Vaccine requirements
    • Mandatory entry forms
    • Pre-departure tests
    • Post-arrival tests
    • Post-arrival quarantine

    If you’re a Latin America enthusiast and have opted not to get the shot, or you’re simply looking to avoid Covid mandates altogether even if you’re immunized, then these are the best picks. Additionally, Americans have unrestricted entry to Spanish-speaking Puerto Rico, which may not have lifted all Covid curbs, reflecting the mainland U.S., but has axed all Covid regulations affecting incoming U.S. tourists prior to departure.

    Skyline Of Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires, Argentina At Night

    Of course, Puerto Rico isn’t available as a fully open destination for non-American citizens, as they must observe entry rules for the United States as a whole. Up until now, the Americas’ number one economy has refused to announce an official reopening date, and has maintained a vaccine requirement in place, applying to all foreigners.

    What Are The Best Latin American Destinations For Travel This Fall?

    • Costa Rica
    • Mexico
    • Argentina
    Young Female Tourist With A Backpack Watching A Waterfall In A Natural Setting, Costa Rica, Central America

    Some of the top destinations to visit in restriction-free Latin America include Costa Rica, where several natural landmarks can be found, including tropical forests, volcanoes, picturesque lakes and waterfalls; of course, Mexico remains a trendy vacay for Americans going south of the border this year.

    Guanajuato, one of its colonial cities, has just been named ‘the most beautiful‘ in the entire country, at the same time that the charming, equally-historical San Miguel de Allende experiences a surge in bookings. This proves Mexico continues to be at the top of its game when it comes to tourism reinvention, as it looks to diversify its offer amid the tropical storm warnings issued for the coasts.

    Aerial View Of Buenos Aires With The Famous Obelisk Pictured, Argentina, South America

    Lastly, there is Argentina, the only country in South America that welcomes Americans without Covid entry requirements. The home of tango, History icons like Evita, stunning cities like Buenos Aires and Mendoza, and guarding the gateway to the world’s edge, namely the frosty Ushuaia, it can be an incredible fall destination.

    Read More:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    Argentina Wants To Become Digital Nomad’s Top Destination in Latin America

    Top Destinations In The World Depending On How Old You Are

    Travelers Are Still Required To Pay Tourist Tax When Visiting Cancun

    The 8 Most Challenging Things About Traveling In South America

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

    ↓ Join the community ↓

    The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily! 

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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  • Travelers Are Still Required To Pay Tourist Tax When Visiting Cancun

    Travelers Are Still Required To Pay Tourist Tax When Visiting Cancun

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    On April 1st, 2021, the Mexican government implemented a tourist tax for international visitors coming into the state of Quintana Roo. Many of the most popular destinations in Mexico, including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Cozumel, are located within Quintana Roo. As a result, most tourists entering Mexico are subject to the tax, which applies to all tourists over four. Though the tax has been around for over a year, many remain unaware of its existence.

    Travelers outside terminal 4 of cancun international airport

    How Much Is The Tourism Tax?

    The total fee per visitor amounts to $241 Mexican Pesos, or roughly $12 U.S. Dollars as of this writing. The fee applies to every traveler over four who will visit any part of the Quintana Roo state. To pay the fee, travelers can use the Mexican Government’s VISITAX website before or during their trip. The tax is a measure to raise funding for development in the tourism industry, and it was initially estimated that the tax would produce $29.1 million U.S. dollars in 2021. However, many tourists remain unaware of the tax, which has made its collection unpredictable.

    Cancun airport

    Do You Have To Pay The Tax?

    The Quintan Roo tourism tax is mandatory for every traveler over four. So, if you are reading this, you should probably pay the tax. However, information regarding the tax is fairly limited, and its existence has eluded many travelers even after a year of being in effect. Beyond the payment website itself, it can be difficult to find information about the tourism tax. Some travelers have reported that they traveled to and from Cancun without ever being asked for proof of tax payment, leading others to ignore it. However, the tax is still mandatory, and travelers could still be asked to provide proof of payment.

    Travelers walking in cancun international airport

    A Word Of Caution

    There is only one official site that travelers are to use when paying the tourism tax. For clarity, the site with its entire URL string is https://www.visitax.gob.mx. Any other site users may find through search engines or other means is NOT the official portal for paying the tourism tax. Many sites have popped up after the tax introduction that attempt to take advantage of travelers planning to visit Quintana Roo.

    tax screenshot scams

    Because Travel Off Path does not wish to further these sites by providing links to them, we’ve included screenshots of the prices that a few of these sites are charging for the tourism tax. As you can see, some sites are charging as much as $42 for the $12 tax. Presumably, they are taking your information, paying the tax, sending you the confirmation, and pocketing the difference. However, since none of these sites are official avenues for paying the tourist tax, it’s unknown whether or not they actually pay the tax in your stead.

    Passengers Transiting Through Duty Free Zone In Cancun International Airport

    Latest Updates

    When this tax was first introduced, it lacked a system to support its enforcement. Hence, many travelers have gone to and from Quintana Roo without paying or being asked about it. However, Mexico is slowly adding more infrastructure to the system. Recently, it introduced VISITAX payment modules in arrival terminals 2 and 4 at Cancun International Airport.

    Until recently, the only way to pay the tax was through the use of the online form. However, travelers can now pay in person at Cancun International Airport. It seems the government is trying to make the tax more apparent and more stringent enforcement could soon follow.

    Information Needed To Pay The Tax

    In order to pay the tax, travelers will need to fill out either the online form or use one of the in-person modules located in Cancun International Airport. The form will require:

    • The Number of People in Your Party
    • First & Last Names of All Party Members
    • Birthdates of Each Party Member
    • Passport Numbers for All Party Members
    • The Date of Departure from Quintana Roo
    Cancun hotel zone with paraglider in the foreground

    Proof of payment will be provided and, if enforced, must be shown to airport security before departing. As more destinations continue to add tourist taxes, travelers will likely see them become the new normal. Thankfully, this particular tax remains low for now. And although many travelers have gotten by without paying the tax since its introduction, it is still mandatory.

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

    ↓ Join the community ↓

    The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily! 

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories



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  • United Airlines Becomes The First U.S. Carrier To Offer Nonstop Flights To Dubai

    United Airlines Becomes The First U.S. Carrier To Offer Nonstop Flights To Dubai

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    Proving the ties between North America and the Middle East are stronger than ever now that Covid restrictions have eased, United Airlines has just been granted the honor of being the first U.S. carrier to offer nonstop flights to Dubai, at least in a long while. Pretty soon, Dubai and its many wonders will be a lot more accessible to Americans.

    Young Female Tourist Holding Up A UAE United Arab Emirates Flag In Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Middle East, Western Asia

    Demand for the United Arab Emirates has soared this year after international tourism resumed: even though the country had remained open, albeit with varying degrees of restrictions, throughout most of the crisis, it wasn’t until recently that bookings went through the roof and an accentuated recovery was noted.

    Now, it is without a question one of the most sought-after destinations, both by Americans and globally:

    United Returns To Dubai For The First Time In Six Years

    Tail Of United Airlines Aircraft In The Air Midflight

    Starting next year, United Airlines will have a direct link between its New York hub of Newark (EWR) and Dubai International (DXB), marking the first time a U.S. carrier returns to the Emirate since 2016. At the time, a feud had started between America’s three largest airlines, namely United, Delta and American Airlines, and Persian Gulf’s main carriers.

    The daily service is launching officially on March 25, 2023, and is a sign of change for two airlines that had once been hostile to one another over market share for nearly six years. In fact, Emirates Airlines, Dubai’s main server, even warmed to the idea of initiating a codeshare agreement in what could be described as a watershed moment for U.S.-UAE connectivity.

    Young Female Tourist Taking A Picture Of The Dubai Peninsula With The Dubai Wheel Pictured, United Arab Emirates

    On top of that, customers on both ends will have access to each other’s Frequent Flyer membership, and all the perks that this status confers, whether it’s Business Class upgrades, access to exclusive airport lounges and much more. Luckily, those most enthusiastic about Emirates’ world-class service won’t have to sacrifice their comfort when flying United.

    United Brings In Its Boeing 777-200ER

    Dubai Cityscape, United Arab Emirates, Middle East

    A Boeing 777-200ER has been deployed for the trajectory, and it features a total of 276 seats. Out of those, 50 are Business Class (or Polaris), 24 Premium Plus, or United’s equivalent to ‘premium economy seats’, 46 Economy Plus with extra legroom, and 156 regular Economy, at the lowest-possible fare.

    On those, tickets can go as low as $548 one-way.

    Emirates has gained a reputation for being a high end airline with true inflight luxury, and has nearly become an essential part of the overall ‘Dubai experience’. United is well aware of that, and while it is no longer Emirates’ fierce competitor, it is rising up to the challenge in providing its loyal Polaris customer a near, if not equal, Emirates-level of quality.

    Interior Of An United Airlines Aircraft

    United’s business seats were ‘designed for comfort and convenience’, and have been described as ideal both for those who want to relax ahead of landing at their final destination, or work for a few hours during their flight. Some of the features are a ‘six-way adjustable headrest’ and a seat cushion that ‘cradles’ passengers when reclining.

    Also included:

    • Multiple storage spaces for personal items;
    • A water bottle console;
    • An electronic device holder fit for both smartphones and tablets;
    • Universal AC power plug;
    • An extendable cocktail table;
    • DIRECTTV access, etc.
    United Airlines Aircraft Parked At An Airport Runway

    More Details About The Flight

    As for the flight itself, duration is 13h25 eastbound and 14h50 westbound. The daily scheduled is as follows: UA164 departs Newark at 22:15, arriving in Dubai 19:40 local time, on the following day. Returning home, flight UA163 leaves Dubai at 2:15 in the morning, arriving back to New York-Newark at 9:05 in the same calendar date EST.

    Prior to the launch, United’s route to the Emirate departing from Newark had mandatory layovers in other airports in Europe, such as Paris’ Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam’s Schiphol, which has been facing severe travel delays lately. On the other hand, Emirates has been flying nonstop to JFK for years, a hub that has persistently shunned United’s efforts to expand.

    Young Female Traveler Strolling Around The Airport As She Drags Her Luggage Behind Her, Air Travel Concept

    The agreement will allow Emirates to continue operating from JFK, where it even maintains a lounge and has built strong partnerships, while United serves Newark instead. Moving forward, we expect to see this relationship deepen further, and new routes to be announced from the U.S. to the Middle East now that the air bridge has been amended.

    Read More:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    United Airlines Adding New Flights To 3 European Capitals

    Dubai Is Opening A Huge Moon Shaped Resort For Luxury Stays

    Why Dubai Has Become A Top Destination For International Travelers

    Layover in Dubai? Emirates Offers Free Hotel For Transiting Passengers

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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  • Dominican Republic Sets New Tourism Record And Now Has Over 100 All Inclusive Resorts

    Dominican Republic Sets New Tourism Record And Now Has Over 100 All Inclusive Resorts

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    Following the trend of several other sunny destinations, the Dominican Republic has just set another all-time tourism record. In August of this year, the Dominican Republic welcomed over 620,000 tourists, shattering its previous 2019 record. World-renowned beaches spotted with luxury all inclusives keep visitors coming back to this Caribbean gem year after year.

    beautiful caribbean tropical island Bacardi Island, Dominican Republic.

    How Much Has Tourism Grown?

    The Dominican Republic – especially Punta Cana – is becoming a staple on every tropical traveler’s wish list. New resorts are constantly springing up, and visitor counts continue to outpace previous years. The last year before the pandemic, 2019, was the country’s biggest year ever for tourism. However, 2022 has consistently been bigger. Air arrivals from January through August 2019 amounted to 4,664,036 visitors. This year saw an increase of about 5.15%, with total air arrivals for the same months amounting to  4,904,160 visitors.

    young woman on Saona island, Dominican Republic

    Who Is Visiting?

    Americans are the biggest market for the Dominican Republic, followed by Canadians. From January to August of this year, about 1.64 million Americans have flown to the Dominican Republic, taking up a 38.4% share of all international air arrivals. In second place is Canada, which has sent just over 384,700 air arrivals to the country. Hotel occupancy rates have been high all year, with an average rate of 72.4% between January and July. July was the most-booked month, with a hotel occupancy rate of 77.4%.

    Bavaro beach with tourists in dominican republic

    What’s Special About The Dominican Republic?

    The Resorts

    The Dominican Republic draws many different types of travelers. One of the most popular ways people visit the country is by staying at an all-inclusive resort. Most of the popular resorts are located in Punta Cana, which, like Cancun, is becoming an area known for its incredible beaches and a vast range of all-inclusive resorts. The Dominican Republic is home to over 100 all inclusives, and Punta Cana claims over 70 of them.

    Bavaro beach in dominican republic

    Travel Off Path recently looked at Punta Cana all-inclusives from January 14th through January 21st to get an idea of average costs for this coming winter. We found that, on average, Punta Cana’s 4-star all-inclusives were $239 per night, and there were 5 properties available for the dates chosen. For 5-star all-inclusives, the average nightly price was $422 per night, and there were 63 properties available. Compared to another all-inclusive hotspot, Cancun, the prices are quite favorable.

    Punta Cana overhead view of resort and beach

    The Beaches

    Punta Cana’s beaches are not as developed as Cancun’s, but that’s not a criticism. Punta Cana offers a better chance of finding a secluded place along the beach to call your own for an afternoon. The most popular beach is Bavaro Beach, which gives travelers a chance to feel like they are walking right into a postcard due to its appeal to the eye. For travelers taking advantage of an all-inclusive property, there are endless options dotting the beaches in Punta Cana.

    Bavaro Beach in Punta Cana

    The Weather

    Many travelers head to the Caribbean every year to escape the cold for a week or two over winter. Indeed, the Dominican Republic is the perfect escape, and the weather in the most popular region, Punta Cana, is ideal in January. The average temperature is 76.6°F (24.8°C), and there are typically only 11 days of rain. Likewise, the ocean is inviting at an average temperature of 80°F (27°C), and the sun dutifully shines over the clear-blue waters each day. It can get a bit humid, with an average humidity of 76%, but with a bit of shade and a cold drink, most travelers would never notice.

    sunset punta cana

    Getting There

    Most travelers to the Dominican Republic fly into Punta Cana Airport. Presently, Punta Cana does not have quite as many direct flights as Cancun. Still, airlines are noticing Punta Cana’s increase in popularity and have begun offering more nonstop flights. As a result, for a getaway in January, twenty U.S. cities will fly directly to Punta Cana (PUJ). Canadians will have eight cities flying directly to PUJ. For more detailed information on which cities and airlines are flying directly to Punta Cana this winter, read more HERE.

    Cancun beach with people in the water and under umbrellas

    The Dominican Republic is making a name for itself, and this country’s tourism sector will likely continue to grow every year. Punta Cana is a significant draw for tourists interested in visiting the country, but there are even more hotel hotspots in the works. Additionally, travelers interested in visiting can read about how Punta Cana compares to Cancun HERE.

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

    ↓ Join the community ↓

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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  • Famous Maya Beach Closed In Thailand: 5 Beautiful Destinations Travelers Can Visit Instead

    Famous Maya Beach Closed In Thailand: 5 Beautiful Destinations Travelers Can Visit Instead

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    Thailand’s Maya Bay – made famous thanks to Leonardo DiCaprio’s Hollywood smash The Beach – is closed at present to allow ecosystems at the scenic cove a chance to recover. The bay had only just reopened this year after more than three years of being closed to the public following significant degradation to the local environment, with fierce debate currently brewing between local groups about whether or not the closure of one of the country’s leading tourism attractions should be made permanent or seasonal. 

    maya beach aerial

    However, regardless of whether the bay is set to reopen or close for good, there’s no reason for travelers to fear as Thailand has plenty more beautiful beaches, cozy coves and idyllic islands to enjoy. Here’s a look at five of the most beautiful alternatives to Maya Bay, and why travelers looking to visit the Land of Smiles over the next few months should add them to their travel itineraries as soon as possible.  

    maya bay the beach thailand

    Railay

    For travelers looking for an alternative to Maya Bay, where better arguably the country’s most beautiful beach located in the same province? Situated in coastal Krabi between the main town and Ao Nang, Railay is a remarkable peninsula surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs that provide some of the world’s best rock climbing routes. Home to four distinct beaches, along with a network of caves, tiny islands within swimming distance and mangroves that are rich in biodiversity, Railay provides stunning island views that are best enjoyed from its soft beaches, temperate seas or under the shadow of its looming karsts. Less developed than Koh Phi Phi but with a healthy supply of cafes and eateries, Railay is the perfect place to spend a day or two, and is easily accessible from Ao Nang via a 10-minute longtail boat ride. 

    railay krabi thailand

    Ko Similan

    Also located on the country’s Andaman coast, Ko Similan – better known as the Similan Islands – are a Mecca for diving enthusiasts, but there’s more than just life beneath the waves to enjoy. Reachable via a boat journey from Phang Nga’s resort town of Khao Lak, the Similan Islands are everything a tropical island paradise should be. The water is remarkably clear, the sand is soft and powdery whilst a wide array of wildlife can be observed – from stunning monitor lizards on the islands themselves to manta rays, sharks and sea turtles around them. Whilst diving will give travelers the full Similan Island experience, most tours also provide snorkeling equipment, which provides a window into the underwater world that helped put this destination on the map. 

    similan islands thailand

    James Bond Island

    Maya Bay isn’t the only destination in Thailand to have welcomed Hollywood to its shores. Khao Phing Kan served as a villain’s hideout in the 1974 James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun, and has been referred to as James Bond Island by travelers ever since. Also located in Phang-Nga province in the country’s south, the island is instantly recognizable due to its singular limestone column erupting from the sea in a perpendicular fashion and gorgeous, isolated beaches and islands nearby. The location is mostly underdeveloped, with the entire province of Phang-Nga providing much more local vibes than its tourism-heavy neighbors Phuket and Krabi, providing an authentic slice of life in rural Thailand. Tour tickets to the island often also include a trip to Koh Panyi, a well-known fishing village on stilts famed for its floating soccer pitch. 

    james bond island thailand

    Freedom Beach

    Phuket is full of beaches, but few share the quiet, effortlessly beautiful qualities that bring travelers to Maya Bay in their droves. Freedom Beach, however, is one of the few exceptions. Despite being geographically close to the rowdy beaches of Patong, Freedom Beach couldn’t be more different. Accessible courtesy of a longtail boat or a perilous descent down a treacherous dirt track, Freedom Beach boasts powdery, white sand, turquoise seas and an abundance of coves, bays and inlets to explore nearby. Tropical coconut trees and palms provide shade and a typical beach atmosphere, and the night-time delights, restaurants and sights of Patong are just around the corner once you’ve had enough of this paradise.

    freedom beach phuket

    Koh Hong

    Another glorious location in Krabi Province, Koh Hong is arguably the most aesthetically-similar destination to Maya Bay in the country. Like Maya Bay, Koh Hong features beaches surrounded by sheer cliffs, with views out into the Andaman Sea. However, Koh Hong has hidden delights that many travelers claim exceed even those of The Beach. The island is home to a secluded lagoon, surrounded by cliffs in a way that gives it it’s name – hong means “room” in Thai, and rooms don’t come much better than this, where the water turns from emerald to turquoise as it shimmers in the sun. Whether kayaking in the lagoon, snorkeling off the beach or taking in the entire island from its elevated viewpoint, Koh Hong is one of the most beautiful islands in the country and is easily accessible by boat from various points on Krabi’s mainland. 

    longtail boats thailand

    Controversy is never far from Maya Bay, as Thailand’s court yesterday ordered 20th Century Fox to pay for damages incurred during filming The Beach. Whilst it might be scheduled to reopen at the end of the month, closure once more could be just around the corner – particularly if local environment groups get their way – but these destinations should provide travelers with more than enough memories to make up for missing it. 

    Maya Bay In Thailand, Southeast Asia

    Read More:

    Thailand To Offer Longer Visa On Arrival To Attract More Travelers

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    Thailand To Start Treating Covid Like The Flu From October

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

    ↓ Join the community ↓

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  • New High Tech Sleeper Trains Launching Soon In Europe’s Top Destinations

    New High Tech Sleeper Trains Launching Soon In Europe’s Top Destinations

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    With the generalized chaos affecting airports in Europe, the popularity of trains in the continent has soared to new heights. After countries like Germany and Spain slashed fares to promoted train ridership this summer, a new trend started emerging: that of overnight journeys, and now there’s even a new high tech sleeper train launching.

    Red Train Traveling Through The Swiss Alps, Switzerland, Europe

    Unlike in North America, where companies like Amtrak were on the brink of bankruptcy due to low demand for rail links, and have only recently experienced a powerful comeback, trains are an inherent part of the wider European experience, with some routes being attractions in their own right and actively sought out by visitors.

    Now, Europe is taking it up a notch by unveiling its brand new night trains, set to travel across all of its major destinations. Paris, Budapest, Milan, Vienna, you name it:

    Here’s Everything We Know So Far About The Launch

    Group Of Female Friends About To Board A Train, Train Travel Concept

    Naturally, Europe has had the upper hand in responding to the train tourism surge: unlike in places like Mexico where this mode of transport is being re-introduced decades later, the Old World never ceased investing in railway, which has remained an important aspect of inter-European connectivity – even after air travel became widespread.

    Now, it is banking on sleeper trains to assert its dominance in the market. More specifically, we’re witnessing the relaunch of a number of night routes that had, up until this year, been largely overshadowed by low cost, short-distance flights. As it appears, contrary to popular belief, the appeal of long luxury train rides has not faded in the slightest.

    Austrian national rail company OBB has just confirmed its new NightJets are debuting next year – a generation of posh-looking, high tech trains built to maximize comfort during overnight journeys. Believe it or not, OBB’s new pan-European express even has the potential to surpass flight bookings.

    NightJet Train, Europe Train Travel

    Meet NightJet – Europe’s Shiny High-Speed Overnight Express

    The new NightJet trains will be comprised of seven carriages:

    • Two are standard seats
    • Two sleeping cars able to house two travelers in each compartment
    • Three further sleeping cars with four-passenger suites, as well as mini-cabins for those traveling solo and seeking more privacy

    The most exciting addition, perhaps, are the new minisuites ‘at couchette prices’. These have been teased exclusively by Mark Smith, the Man in Seat 61, who had a sneak peak into the train ahead of its official launch:

    They will be able to carry 254 passengers – more seats than most short-haul planes offer, including those used by Europe’s famous ultra low cost carrier Ryanair, most commonly a Boeing 737-800 with an 189-seat configuration. Additionally, the NightJet will travel at a speed of 143 miles per hour, covering longer distances in a much shorter timespan.

    What Are The NightJet’s Strongest Assets?

    Keeping it short, speed and amenities.

    Young Female Train Passenger Smiling As She Poses For A Picture Hopping Off A Train, Train Travel Concept

    To draw a comparison, Trenitalia’s flagship Frecciarossa, Italy’s renowned high-speed trains among Europe’s best, can reach up to 186 miles per hour – only moderately faster than the NightJet. The latter is set to rival Europe’s historic, yet prohibitively-priced Venice Simplon-Orient Express, carrying passengers from Western Europe all the way to Istanbul in Turkey.

    While they will obviously not be as upscale as the Orient Express, an unparalleled icon synonymous with Old World opulence, the NightJet trains are seeing some major upgrades compared to other long-distance, cross-border service around Europe:

    Female Traveler Reading A Book As She Drinks A Coffee Or Tea As She Travels By Train, Train Travel Concept
    • Berths are expected to feature wireless phone charging and mood lighting
    • The sleeper car compartments will have their own toilets and showers
    • Couchette and sleeper coaches include breakfast
    • Trains are equipped with air conditioner, an absolute essential during Europe’s hot summer months*

    *Temperature can be controlled individually in each compartment

    When And Where Is It Launching?

    Beautiful View Out Of Window Of A Train In Switzerland, Europe

    The updated NightJets are set to make their big debut in summer 2023, and so far, service has been confirmed across 25 destinations in 8 countries:

    • Austria (Vienna, Salzburg, Graz, Innsbruck)
    • Switzerland (Zurich, Basel)
    • Germany (Hamburg, Berlin, Cologne, Frankfurt, Dusseldorf, Munich)
    • Italy (Florence, Rome, Verona, Lake Garda, Milan, Venice, Bologna)
    • Belgium (Brussels)
    • France (Paris, Strasbourg)
    • Croatia (Zagreb, Split)
    • Sweden (Stockholm)

    Fares for summer 2023 are yet to be announced, though they can go as low as €29,90 at present.

    Male Traveler Standing In Center Of ublic Square In Brno, Czech Republic, Europe

    Recently, we published an article on Europe’s popular train pass enabling Americans to travel 33 countries for less than $200. We don’t know, as of yet, whether these can be validated on future NightJet journeys, as further details such as ticket fares and discount eligibility are yet to be outlined. For more information, please refer to the company’s FAQs page.

    Read More:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    These 5 Sleeper Train Routes Are Your Best Bet For Exploring Europe This Summer

    New High-Speed Trains Are Connecting Top Cities In Italy

    New High Speed Train Will Connect Paris To Berlin In 7 Hours

    Top European Destinations Where American Travelers Are Headed To This Fall

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

    ↓ Join the community ↓

    The Travel Off Path Community FB group has all the latest reopening news, conversations, and Q&A’s happening daily! 

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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  • Brazil Lifts Ban On Unvaccinated Americans

    Brazil Lifts Ban On Unvaccinated Americans

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    Brazil just took a huge step in reinstating pre-Covid normality after spending months in the company of some of the world’s most restrictive countries. More specifically, it finally lifted its ban on unvaccinated visitors, including Americans, allowing in all foreigners once again with some restrictions.

    Young Male Tourist Sat On Top Of A Rock Overlooking Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    During the early days of the pandemic, Brazil maintained an open border policy, much like Mexico and the Caribbean nations, although it still required tests of visitors. However, things changed drastically when vaccines became widely available, and the country, where vaccine uptake is incredibly high, shut its doors to those choosing not to get the shot.

    Luckily, as of this week, the unvaxxed can start exploring Brazil again by fulfilling one simple requirement:

    Unvaxxed Americans Are Welcome Again On One Simple Condition

    Couple Of Smiling Tourists At The Beach In Brazil, South America

    A new decree published on September 12 changed guidelines for Americans traveling to Brazil. While the process has always been pretty straightforward, with no post-arrival testing or strict quarantine rules applying, South America’s number one nation did start turning away unvaxxed travelers in late 2021 at the peak of the Omicron wave.

    Essentially, the group was no longer authorized to board flights to the country, as they once had been, by using a negative Covid test as proof of entry. This outright ban lasted a whole nine months, dating back to December 10 of last year and shunning more than 73 million Americans who have opted for not getting immunized.

    Pelourinho, Historic City Centr OF Salvador, Bahia, Northeastern Brazil

    Heading into the fall in the Northern Hemisphere and the early days of Brazil’s long, hot summer months, the strict vaccine rule, which placed the country side by side with the Netherlands, Canada and the like, has been done away with. Brazilians authorities have loosened their border curbs and now expect tourists to produce only one of the following documents:

    • Proof of vaccination; or
    • A negative Covid test undertaken one day prior to boarding.

    How Many Doses Are Required To Fit The Vaccination Criteria?

    Traveler Showing A Health Certificate, Vaccination Passport In The Context Of International Travel

    Two doses are enough, or one in Janssen’s case.

    Brazil considers Americans to be fully vaccinated when they have fulfilled the initial immunization scheme of any Anvisa-approved vaccines, other brands that have been certified by the World Health Organization, or even by equivalent health organs in specific countries. Anvisa is the equivalent to the States’ own Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.

    In sum, Brazil accepts all popular vaccination certificates issued worldwide, most notably Pfizer’s, Moderna’s, Janssen’s, Sinovac’s and others. The decree states that, in order to be deemed valid, vaccination proof must contain the recipient’s name, the vaccine brand or information about its manufacturer, as well as the number of doses given and their precise dates.

    Young Male Watching The Twin Brothers Rock Formation In Fernando De Noronha, Pernambuco, Brazil

    Both printed and electronic certificates are accepted, but it is worth noting Brazilian border officers will not accept QR-code only certificates without any specifications. If you qualify as a vaccinated traveler and plans on using a digital certificate as proof of entry, make sure it includes all of the relevant information described in the paragraph above.

    What Covid Tests Are Accepted As Proof Of Entry?

    On the other hand, if a traveler cannot present proof of vaccination, they will no longer be refused boarding, but must present a negative Covid test result, issued by a laboratory, taken at most one day prior to the departure time. The unvaccinated can choose between the more-detailed PCR, or the Rapid Antigen tests.

    Beautiful Colonial Era Church In Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil

    Other than that, all of the following is true:

    • Travelers are not required to complete an entry form
    • There is no post-arrival testing for both the vaccinated and the unvaccinated
    • No quarantine applies to travelers arriving from abroad
    • There are no restrictions on inter-state travel within Brazil
    • The mandatory use of face masks in planes, public transport, airports and other public settings has been lifted*

    *Different Brazilian states, cities and municipalities have their own jurisdiction which may, or may not, countermand the Federal mandate. If you’re unsure whether masks are still required in a particular state or at your final destination, we advised you obtain confirmation from local authorities.

    Small Town Of Pipa In Northeastern Brazil, South America

    Brazil Is Yet To Fully Reopen Like Argentina, But It’s Getting Seriously Close To It

    This isn’t yet a full reopening in the mold of neighboring Argentina or the fellow Portuguese-speaking Portugal, but it serves as evidence Brazil is indeed pursuing a path of wider reopening, unlike other American nations that not only continue banning unvaccinated Americans, but are going as far as tightening rules further.

    Besides lifting the controversial ban, the tropical gem has said yes to cruise ships and proved it is on top of the latest travel trends, being the proud home of South America’s first-ever digital nomad village. Of course, we want to see Brazil resume tourism as usual with zero requirements for all, but until that day comes, we will savor every smaller win.

    Read More:

    4 Incredible Off The Beaten Path Destinations In Brazil

    Brazil To Launch New Digital Nomad Visas For Up To 2 Years

    New Zealand Drops Vaccine Requirement For Travelers, Ditches Mask Mandates

    This Colonial City Has Been Voted The Most Beautiful In Mexico

    This Is The Safest Country To Travel In Latin America

    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

    ↓ Join the community ↓

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  • These Are The Last Countries That Still Ban Americans Without A Vaccine

    These Are The Last Countries That Still Ban Americans Without A Vaccine

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    Now that the world’s top tourist hotspots have reopened their borders for travel and axed their vaccination requirements, it is easy to forget the same does not necessarily apply to the entire globe. Indeed, the vast majority of countries still have restrictions in place, with four of the major ones going as far as banning Americans without a vaccine.

    Traditional Dutch Houses Reflected On The Water, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

    While it’s true Covid no longer poses the same threat it did two years ago, prior to the development of vaccines and the roll-out of new treatments, the health scare has prompted some national governments to keep stricter rules in place for longer – or, in some cases, continue banning all forms of tourism.

    In this article, you will find out which destinations continue to refuse entry to unvaccinated Americans, regardless of testing, and whether some accept recovery certificates instead:

    The 17 Destinations Still Banning The Unvaxxed

    The Hague, The Netherlands, Northwestern Europe

    According to both Sherpa’s Travel Requirements Map and IATA’s Travel Regulations, there are at least 16 international destinations barring Americans who opted for no immunization. There are others applying a blanket travel ban to all foreigners, irrespective of vaccination status, such as China, and thus they are not included on the list.

    These 16, however, have either substantially eased or removed travel rules for vaccinated visitors, such as abolishing pre-departure tests, quarantine, and post-arrival testing for the group, while shutting their doors completely to the non-immunized. Other examples where the group is allowed to enter presenting tests are also excluded.

    Young Woman Wearing A Face Mask As She Holds Up An American U.S. Passport getting ready to travel

    These include countries like Spain and most of South America, with the exception of Argentina, which are open to the unvaccinated with varying degrees of restriction, ranging from mandatory PCR tests in the hours leading up to their departure, random Covid tests when landing, or observation of a quarantine period.

    Below, you will find a list of countries who have imposed an outright ban on unvaccinated travel:

    1. Azerbaijan*
    2. Brazil
    3. Canada
    4. Equatorial Guinea
    5. Fiji**
    6. Ghana
    7. Iraq***
    8. Liberia****
    9. Luxembourg*****
    10. Netherlands******
    11. Papua New Guinea
    12. Philippines
    13. Tonga
    14. Samoa
    15. Solomon Islands

    *Azerbaijan – Alternatively, the unvaccinated can present proof of immunity. Those who have not been infected recently, and who do not have a vaccination certificate, cannot enter.

    **Fiji – Recovery certificates issued by a ‘credible institution’ are taken into consideration for entry purposes.

    ***Iraq – Vaccine exemption letters issued by a relevant health entity are in theory accepted. Those who can have a medical condition where a vaccine is contraindicated must still present a negative PCR test result issued within 72 hours

    **** Liberia – If they are allowed to board their flights or other public transport heading to Liberia, unvaccinated passengers are returned to their point of embarkation

    *****Luxembourg – Recovery certificates issued in the year preceding travel are accepted

    ******Netherlands – A minimum of three doses of an approved vaccine are required

    Young Male Traveler Wearing A Face Mask As He Gets His Covid Certificate Scanned At The Airport before travel

    We said 16 countries, and you might be wondering why the seventeenth entry has not been mentioned yet.

    Allow us to explain further:

    The 16th Country Is…

    This may not concern Americans directly, but the U.S. does not accept unvaccinated non-Americans or residents regardless of recovery status or negative tests. Of course, Americans can still travel into and out of the States as they wish, but the same does not apply to foreigners, who must present vaccination proof.

    In total, there are 17 off-limit places for unvaccinated tourists globally, and 16 for unvaccinated U.S. passport holders.

    Statue Of Liberty Shown With The New York Cityscape In The Background, United States

    The Four Main Countries Barring Entry Of Unvaccinated Americans

    • Canada
    • Brazil
    • Netherlands
    • Philippines

    As can be seen above, four major destinations issued travel bans for unvaccinated Americans, most notably Canada. For months now, the country’s tourism sector has been suffering heavy losses and struggling to recover as a result of Ottawa’s strict border policies. To put it bluntly, Americans are avoiding Canada like the plague, even if they’re immunized.

    Young Male Traveler Arriving To Toronto Pearson International Airport With An Air Canda Sign Blurred In The Background, Toronto, Canada, about to travel

    Vital rail links between the U.S. and Canada may have been reinstated, but demand has reached a historical low. The main reason? Besides the unvaccinated ban, Canada has a random testing policy in place, which can see a few unlucky travelers from the U.S. issued a 10-day quarantine order when they test positive, or even a ‘false’ positive when landing in Canada.

    In South America, Brazil does not routinely test incoming travelers, but it is yet to lift border curbs which have kept the unvaccinated from visiting. Interestingly, Brazil had been open for the better half of the pandemic, despite requiring tests at one point. As soon as vaccines became widely available, this lax attitude changed.

    Aerial View Of Christ The Redeemer Statue In Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

    Since then, only fully immunized U.S. citizens can visit, and while they face no other restrictions, their fellow Americans who decided not to get the shot are forbidden from setting foot in the country. Across the pond, both the Netherlands and Luxembourg have adopted a similar approach, and are currently the strictest European countries for Covid travel rules.

    Unvaxxed U.S. tourists are not in the Benelux duo’ good graces, as they are the two last destinations in the Old World that remain off-limits to them, unless when coming directly from fellow Schengen Area member states. In fact, nearly all of Europe* has dropped entry requirements, welcoming visitors under normal pre-pandemic guidelines.

    Picturesque View Of The Gronn District And The Alzette River In Luxembourg, Central Europe

    *Besides The Netherlands and Luxembourg, Spain still requires testing of unvaccinated Americans. While they remain at war, Ukraine and Russia have also not completely eased their travel rules, with the former officially requiring either a negative test of vaccination certificate as proof of entry.

    Lastly, the Philippines has given no indication as to when it will allow for normal travel to resume. However, at a time when most of Asia is moving progressively towards a wider reopening, with several nonstop flights from the U.S. being announced, we expect the paradise archipelago to align with its closest neighbors soon.

    Palawan Island, Philippines, Southeast Asia

    For all the latest news on countries reopening and travel regulations, click here.

    Read More:

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    This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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    Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling.  Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories

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