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Unvaccinated Canadians Can Now Travel Within And Out Of Canada

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It’s been a good past couple of days for Canadians who are eager to travel this summer. Last week the country suspended random COVID testing at all its airports for the rest of June to ease the long waiting times that travelers have been facing.

Now there is even more good news for travelers in Canada.

Unvaccinated Canadians will no longer face domestic vaccine mandates

The federal government will suspend its COVID-19 vaccine mandate, Ottawa announced on Tuesday, allowing unvaccinated Canadians to travel domestically by air and train, and internationally by air as of June 20.

It will also lift its vaccine mandate for federal employees, including the RCMP and federal regulated transportation sector workers.

Ottawa first introduced a vaccine mandate on Oct. 30 last year. The mandate required that all passengers over the age of 12 departing from a Canadian airport be fully vaccinated in order to travel.

It also applied to rail passengers on Via Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains, as well as marine passengers on non-essential vessels such as cruise ships.

Cruise ships will have to wait a little longer.

While air and rail travelers will no longer need to be vaccinated in order to travel, the mandate will still remain in place for cruise ship passengers and employees. The mask requirement for planes and trains will also remain in place.

Canada’s airports have been facing catastrophic wait times.

If you’ve been to an airport in Canada recently, there’s a good chance you’ve dealt with more than your average level of chaos. Some of the issues include hours-long security lineups, delayed or cancelled flights, passengers stuck on the tarmac and major congestion at border security.

Canada’s outdated rules are causing unacceptable delays at the country’s major airports, keeping international visitors away and infuriating domestic travelers.

Pressure for Ottawa to drop its vaccine mandates has been ramping up in recent weeks, as delays continue to plague the country’s major airports, particularly at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport.

Travel industry groups have blamed federal public health measures and mandates for slowdowns at airport customs that have contributed to long waits for passengers and forced flight delays and cancellations and have put increasing pressure on the government to do away with them.

The Covid situation in Canada right now.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has reported a steadily declining number of COVID-19 cases, though provinces are no longer providing COVID-19 molecular tests for the general public and federal reporting has become less regimented.

While more than 89 per cent of Canadians over the age of 12 have at least two doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine, only about 55 per cent of them have received a booster shot.

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June 15, 2022
New $500 million Mega Golf Resort Set To Open In Texas Next Year
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A new $500 million mega golf resort is set to open in Texas next year – which is currently the largest resort under construction in the United States of America.

The resort will go by the name of Omni PGA Frisco Resort, and is owned by Omni Hotels and Resorts – who currently operate hotels and resorts throughout 23 U.S. states – as well two properties in the Canadian cities of Montreal and Toronto, and one in Cancun, Mexico.

Credit – Omni Hotels and Resorts

And, there is no doubt that once complete – and open for business – Omni PGA Frisco Resort is going to instantly become one of the top hotels and resorts in and around the city of Dallas, Texas.

So, with their new – and highly anticipated – mega golf resort due to open in Texas in the Spring of 2023, here is what we know so far about the latest addition to the portfolio of Omni Hotels and Resorts.

Where Is The New Mega Golf Resort Located?

The new Omni PGA Frisco Resort is located in the city of Frisco – which is around 30 miles north of downtown Dallas, Texas

What Should We Expect From The New Mega Golf Resort?

There is no doubt that once complete – and welcoming guests through its doors – Omni PGA Frisco Resort is sure to not disappoint.

Credit – Omni Hotels and Resorts

Not only will the resort feature 500 luxury rooms for guests to choose from, there will also be two 18-hole championship golf courses on site – which can be enjoyed by all visitors.

Here is a list of what guests can expect when they step foot onto Omni Hotels and Resorts’ incoming mega golf resort:

Credit – Omni Hotels and Resorts
- 500 guest rooms and suites
- 10 four-bedroom ranch houses
- three swimming pools – including a rooftop infinity pool which is only available to adult guests
- a destination spa – which is set to feature 20 treatment rooms, a steam room and sauna, a Spa Café, as well as a private swimming pool for spa guests
- 13 dining outlets
- indoor and outdoor meeting and event space – which is set to span over an area of 127,000 square feet
- Lounge by Top Golf – which offers the opportunity to play golf on one of Top Golf’s high-tech driving ranges, whilst enjoying the comforts of a lounge serving drinks and snacks
- an extensive entertainment district and retail village – which is set to feature a variety of shops, as well as a selection of dining and drinking options
Credit – Omni Hotels and Resorts
- an outdoor stage – which is set to host a variety of different events, including music concerts.
This Resort Is Sure To Excite The Golf Enthusiasts

As already mentioned, the new resort is sure to impress those who have a keen interest in playing golf – as Omni PGA Frisco Resort is to feature three golf courses on site, including two 18-hole championship courses and a shorter 10-hole course, as well as a golf performance center.

This basically means that visitors will have the opportunity to play 46 different holes of golf during their stay at the resort – which have all been designed by golf course designers, Beau Welling and Gil Hanse.

Golfers will also be able to work on their putting skills on the resort’s two-acre putting green.

And, we can certainly expect ‘big things’ when Omni PGA Frisco Resort begins welcoming guests – with the president of Omni Hotels and Resorts, Peter Strebel, having this to say about the company’s new mega golf resort:

“Residents of Frisco will have access to some of the most extraordinary golfing facilities in the country, not to mention fabulous dining, spa, and more.”

Those wanting to get a sneak peek at the new mammoth Omni PGA Frisco Resort can do so by clicking here to watch a short 5-minute video – and clicking here to check out an online brochure featuring some eye-watering images of the spectacular golf resort.

Credit – Omni Hotels and Resorts

When Is Omni PGA Frisco Resort Due To Open?

Although no specific opening date has been revealed as of yet, Omni PGA Frisco Resort is expected to begin welcoming guests through its doors in less than twelve months’ time – in the Spring of 2023.

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June 14, 2022
Traveling Internationally This Summer May Be Cheaper Than Domestic Trips

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A recent study has revealed that jetting off on an international trip this summer could actually be cheaper than heading away on a domestic vacation. The study is bound to come as a big surprise for travelers, having heard for several months about how expensive flight tickets and hotel stays are at present – but it could well have travelers scrambling to find their passports and book a trip overseas for the coming few months.

Having been made possible by a range of different factors, the study shows that an affordable international vacation isn’t just a thing of the past like many think it is right now, but a feature of travel today as well. Here’s which destinations the study claims American travelers can save money by visiting this summer – plus a look at which other international destinations represent good value for money at present.

International Travel Not Always Extortionate

Despite frequent news stories telling travelers otherwise, international travel doesn’t have to break the bank – or at least that’s what a recent travel study is telling us. A study carried out by the travel booking platform Hopper found that several top destinations for American travelers could be well within budget – and, in many cases, even cheaper than going on a domestic staycation.

The reason why? The strength of the dollar compared to other currencies. Today, one US dollar can purchase ~0.94 Euros, making it one of the few occasions that the two currencies have almost reached parity – all whilst flights and hotel in the US are rising in price. In layman’s terms, that means a traveler’s budget in Europe will stretch 15% further than last summer and 6% further than at this time in 2019 thanks to the strength of the dollar – which will more than help offset the expensive air fare.

The survey also reveals that whilst flight tickets have generally risen across the board, that isn’t the case for every destination. Despite a general increase of almost 15% for international flights and more than 30% for domestic air travel compared to 2019, there are some destinations in Europe that have actually seen their ticket prices fall over the past few years.

Airfare to Portugal has fallen by 11% compared to 2019, with tickets to Croatia also falling 8.4% over the same period. Other countries, such as Ireland and Greece will cost more or less the same they paid for back in 2019, with airfare increases below 1%. Outside of the EU, key countries to target for cheap vacations include Chile, Sweden, Denmark and Norway, where both flight prices have fallen and the dollar is performing well against the local currency.

Despite low overall price rises, travel to Europe can still be expensive for travelers. Flights to Mexico and the Caribbean are cheaper, and have also seen a much lower rise in airfare prices compared to domestic flights and flights to Europe, meaning that trips to top destinations such as Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic are even more attractive now than they were before.

The study also offered some general money saving tips both before and during a vacation. These included ordering currency from a bank before a trip to get the best exchange rate and, when abroad, paying in the local currency where possible to get the best exchange rate and price. Travel abroad may still cost a penny – but it may now cost less than you were previously expecting.

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June 14, 2022
Brown Smelly Seaweed Called Sargassum Invading Most Popular Caribbean Destinations

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A brown, smelly seaweed called sargassum is invading most popular destinations in the Caribbean, potentially ruining the vacations of millions of travelers this summer. Whilst most travelers head to the Caribbean in search of soft sand, clear blue seas and a vacation that’s a treat for all the senses, the reality this summer could be quite different – with top destinations such as Cancun, Punta Cana and Jamaica all recently succumbing to long, tough battles with the foul smelling algae.

Whilst it isn’t exactly a new problem, the unfortunate timing of the sargassum invasion comes just as many travelers were looking forward to going overseas once more after years of travel hell during the pandemic, meaning their long awaited travels are in serious jeopardy of being spoiled by the seaweed. Here’s a look at what sargassum is, which destinations have been affected by it and how the battle to remove it from beaches is going.

What Is Sargassum? Information For Travelers

Sargassum is a type of brown algae that frequently washes up on beaches across the Caribbean and even the United States. As the mountains of beached seaweed rots, it releases hydrogen sulfide – a gas which has an unpleasant odor similar to rotten eggs. Despite being completely harmless to humans, the unsightly and stinky nature of the rotting sargassum means that it runs the risk of ruining beach based activities for potentially millions of travelers this summer.

Where Is Sargassum Causing Problems? What Travelers Should Know

Sargassum is a serious issue in Mexico, where the presence of the seaweed has a huge negative impact on tourism. Cancun is expecting its worst sargassum season in five years, which is bound to affect local tourism levels and see travelers pick more sargassum-free areas to visit instead, such as Los Cabos. Extreme solutions have been mooted, such as the installation of a 60km-long sea barrier, as the country works to address the issue.

The Mexican Navy has also been working to prevent the seaweed from reaching the beach for years, with little success. This year, by using tools such as boats and nets, the Navy only managed to collect around 1% of the total amount of sargassum from the coast. The Navy cited equipment failures as the reason they have failed to prevent more from washing up on the beach, and lead them to conclude that they have failed in their efforts.

However, Mexico isn’t the only country to be suffering from the stinky seaweed. Sargassum has also invaded several beaches in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, with large concentrations found near the Iberostar Selection Bavaro and the Bahia Principe Punta Cana hotels in particular. Rather than the pristine beaches travelers are used to in the region, they are faced with unappealing, smelly, brown beaches – with the problem expected to worsen in the coming months.

Like Mexico, the Dominican Republic has tried in vain to control the spread of sargassum. A 12.7km barrier was installed to prevent it from reaching beaches, and armies of hotel workers attempted to clean them up, but it is expensive and time-consuming work. Like it has in previous years, the prevalence of sargassum is expected to have a negative impact on the number of hotel bookings in the region.

Jamaica’s National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) also warned that the country could be set for a significant influx of sargassum over the coming months. Several beaches in the parishes of St. Mary, Portland, St. Thomas and St. Catherine are already suffering from its presence, with the agency explaining that the prevalence of sargassum in the Caribbean is part of the “new normal”. Barbados too is also suffering from a sargassum invasion, with the problem expected to spread further throughout the region this summer.

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June 13, 2022
Canada Suspends Random Covid Testing On Arrival To Reduce Travel Disruption

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After the United States dropped the testing requirement for vaccinated travelers, including returning American citizens, Canada has now decided to suspend random tests on arrival temporarily as airports struggle with rising travel demand. Starting June 11, only unvaccinated passengers will be subject to testing landing in Canada.

The move comes as numerous airports around the globe battle staffing constraints and an overwhelming demand. Although this is surely a step in the right direction, this is by no means a definitive decision. The Canadian Government has reiterated the relaxation has a validity date and, soon enough, random testing will be reinstated:

Vaccinated Travelers Can Avoid Random Tests Until June 30

From June 11 to June 30, incoming vaccinated travelers will no longer be selected for random testing landing at one of Canada’s main points of entry. Even though the country has scrapped pre-departure testing for the vaccinated a while ago, it had continued to enforce the highly criticized post-arrival random testing measure.

This means that, over the next three weeks, only the unvaccinated will still be required by law to undergo testing, if selected by health authorities, when landing in Canada. On July 1, the requirement for the vaccinated to undergo random testing will return, albeit with significant changes: as stated by the Government, all testing will be moved ‘off-site’.

In other words, travelers will not be required to provide a sample at the airport itself, being moved instead to a different location in a bid to ease the burden placed on understaffed airports. As of now, the Canadian Government has not yet specified how the changes will be effected, or exactly what ‘off-site’ means.

From our understanding, ‘lucky’ travelers could now be conducted to testing facilities outside the airport’s arrival halls, seeing that testing sites that have been set up in their vicinity will be dismantled in the upcoming weeks. This is yet to be confirmed by Canada, and we will keep our readers updated once more information is provided.

Airports In Canada Call For Measure To Be Fully Scrapped

For weeks, airports in Canada have urged the Government to further ease its strict Covid screening at the country’s international hubs as unavoidable cancellations are already set to have a devastating effect on passengers this summer. Enforcing random testing on-arrival would only worsen disruption and prompt further delays.

The Greater Toronto Airport authority (GTAA) has been calling for the program to be suspended for weeks, acknowledging that, in its current state, the hub cannot manage both increasing passenger numbers and enforce the country’s Covid policies. As GTAA states, arrival figures will increase by ‘some 50 per cent’ during summer.

In a recent interview with CBC, Tourism Minister Randy Boissonnault revealed the Government decided to grant the three-week pause in order to help reduce disruption at airports. According to him, the suspension will give the government enough time to set up off-site testing booths away from the increasingly busy arrival halls:

‘It’s going to make sure that the airports flow more quickly’, added Boissonault. He acknowledged that airports are not designed to house mini health care centers and that the revised policy will help staff and ease congestion. Although the measure will be reintroduced shortly, for the Minister, ‘this is a good step in the right direction’.

Transport Minister Omar Alghabra also conceded the Canadian Government ‘recognizes the impact that significant wait times at some Canadian airports are having on travelers’. Alghabra confirmed authorities will continue working with airports, airlines, and other key sectors of the travel industry to find long-term solutions.

Although the suspension will help airports in Canada, and the subsequent translocation of testing centers ensure airport staff can carry out their work uninterrupted, frustration among passengers may continue to grow, as random testing is set to return next month. As the Government has already confirmed, the vaccinated will not continue being exempt from July 1.

Government Believes Policy Is Necessary Despite Experts’ Recommendations

Addressing the public’s animosity towards the measure and defending the measure, Marie-France Proulx, a spokesperson for the Health Ministry, has asserted that randomized testing is ‘the only way’ to detect new variants being imported into Canada, especially now that provinces and territories are no longer doing massive testing.

Randomized testing is not the only concern shared by those traveling to Canada in the post-Covid world. Recently, the Government has come under fire for proposing a new law enabling border officers to search the phones of those arriving in Canada, further alienating restriction-wary travelers that are favoring countries with no strict policies in place.

Within the Parliament, Opposition Conservatives have pressed the Trudeau Administration to lift all remaining Covid restrictions for those visiting Canada, including the vaccination requirement and randomized testing. The latter’s three-week pause may be seen as a positive development, but it is still a small victory for opponents.

As health experts themselves call for randomized testing to be scrapped for good, we may see the Canadian Government reconsidering its tough stance. Many see the policy as ‘unnecessary’ now that there is ‘widespread natural and vaccine-induced immunity’, and one that only increases bureaucracy at airports.

In sum, if you’re vaccinated, you have until June 30 to enter Canada without fear of being picked out for testing.

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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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June 13, 2022
Thailand Becomes The First Destination In Asia To Lift Ban On Cannabis
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Following two years of tightening the grip on social freedoms, as a result of Covid, Thailand seems to be pushing for more liberal policies. Soon after allowing bars and clubs in the country to resume operations and announcing an end to some of its most severe pandemic restrictions, the country is now lifting a long-standing ban on cannabis.

Thailand is officially the first destination in Asia to relax the harshest rules on the commercialization of the plant. Though these are exciting news for tourists who are also cannabis lovers, they should take it with a pinch of salt: it may have ceased being illicit across Thailand as of this month, but its recreational use remains outlawed:

Thailand’s Economy To Reach New Highs

On Thursday (June 9) Thailand claimed the title of first country in the whole of Asia to decriminalize cannabis. In an interview with the CNN, Thai Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who has also been behind the nation’s anti-Covid strategy, confirmed ‘it is no longer a crime to grow and trade marijuana and hemp products’.

Effectively, Thai businesses are now free to capitalize on the the rising popularity of cannabis as an additive to food and drink. From this week, bars and restaurants in the country will be free to sell cannabis-infused products, so long as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels are equal or below 0.2%.

THC is the main psychoactive component present in cannabis. On top of that, visitors will also be allowed to use the plant for health purposes, such as treating illnesses, including chronic pain. Conversely, he warned both locals and tourists alike against abusing the new relaxed laws, reiterating the recreational use of cannabis is still illegal.

To put it simply, smoking joints is not yet allowed in Thailand – but munching on marijuana brownies sold from licensed shops will not get you into trouble. As Charnvirakul argued, legalizing cannabis production, while still maintaining a ban on recreational usage, has the power to further boost Thailand’s economy.

Dealing another blow to those who might be hoping Thailand will follow in Canada or Holland’s footsteps in further relaxing cannabis regulations, Charnvirakul bluntly said ‘no’ to joints. According to the Health Minister, strict laws banning the consumption of cannabis in so-called ‘non-productive ways’ will continue being enforced.

Tourists Are Again Warned Against Smoking Joints In Thailand

Charnvirakul reminded the public, and those visiting Thailand, of the country’s harsh penalties under the Public Health Act. Those found to be using cannabis in an illegal way risk being jailed for three months and fined USD 800.00. Tourists in particular have been alerted not to light joints in public as there will be consequences:

‘If tourists come for medical treatment or come for health-related products then it’s not an issue‘, the Health Minister added, ‘but if you think that you want to come to Thailand just because you heard that cannabis or marijuana is legal, or come to Thailand to smoke joints freely, that’s wrong‘. Charnvirakul concluded by telling these tourists not to come.

Despite the big caveat, the move is still being lauded by the international community. After all, Asia as a whole, and especially Southeast Asia, a subgroup Thailand belongs to, has some of the most severe drug laws in the world. By lifting the ban, Thai authorities now expect the value of the local cannabis industry to exceed 2 billion dollars.

In fact, the Ministry of Agriculture is planning to distribute 1 million free cannabis plants to households in Thailand, clearly encouraging people to join in the venture. Businesses and entrepreneurs will still need to register with authorities in order to obtain a permit to farm the plant and sell cannabis-derived goods.

Can Digital Nomads Living In Thailand Also Grow Cannabis?

In recent years, Thailand has proposed a new digital nomad visa allowing foreigners working remotely to remain in the country for a longer period of time. We do not know, a this point, whether foreigners residing in Thailand under any specific visa categories, including as Digital Nomads, will be allowed to grow the plant.

Seeing that Digital Nomad Visas require applicants to have either a majority, or most of their income originating from foreign sources, we can guess those living in Thailand under this permit will not be allowed to grow the plant and start their own Thailand-based marijuana business. When planning to visit Thailand, tourists are advised to:
- Buy products from licensed venues
- Strictly adhere to laws regulation the recreational use of cannabis
- If living in Thailand and looking to build a business, seek a permit in advance
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June 12, 2022
These Are The Top 5 Countries Most Eager To Welcome Tourists Back After Covid
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Spoiler… 3 of them are in the Caribbean.

International travel has been severely affected by the Covid pandemic. While travelers could roam the world freely before the virus emerged, the last two years have been a succession of travel bans, complex entry requirements and strict testing regimes that virtually suspended tourism. Luckily, now that Covid is under control, countries are finally reopening.

Even though some economies may have not been severely affected by the crisis, as not all countries’ revenues are mainly based off of travel, others felt the pinch particularly hard. These states, where tourism makes up a large portion of their GDP, have been some of the first to reopen and accept visitors – even prior to vaccines being introduced.

Based on a study conducted by Bounce, we rounded up the Top 5 countries most reliant on international tourism, and that are now eager to welcome tourists back after Covid:

5. The Bahamas

The Bahamas ranks at number 5 on the list of places that depend on tourism the most, according to a recent study conducted by travel experts at the Bounce luggage story app. According to the experts, it is only beaten by two other destinations in terms of tourism employment, with over 26% of the country’s workforce being in the sector.

On top of that, tourism accounts for roughly 19% of the archipelago’s GDP, proving the influx of tourist dollars is vital to The Bahamas. With that in mind, it should come as no surprise that these paradise islands eased entry requirements recently, making it much easier for Americans and other foreigners to visit after the Omicron variant subsided.

With the revised rules, all tourists are welcome irrespective of immunization, having to fulfill one simple requirement:
- Present a negative Covid test result (PCR or Rapid Antigen) issued up to 72 hours before arrival.
4. The Seychelles

A French-speaking archipelago off the coast of Eastern Africa, the Seychelles is a surprising destination where clear water beaches can be found against the scenic backdrop of African nature. Similarly to The Bahamas, this tiny country owes much of its GDP to tourist money, which totals nearly 26% of their economy.

It is also open for tourism, and unlike the first entry on this list, vaccinated foreigners can travel to the Seychelles without undergoing a pre-departure Covid test. The unvaccinated are also welcome, as long as they present either a recent recovery certificate, a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure, or a Rapid Antigen test issued under 24 hours.

Once inside the country, tourists can enjoy more freedoms, such as:
- No post-arrival tests
- No state-ordered quarantines
- No Covid screening when visiting tourist sites
3. Aruba

With tourism contributing to nearly 30% of local employment rates, Aruba is one of the Caribbean nations most devoted to developing tourism. In fact, the sector’s participation in its GDP is capped at 27.64%, only slightly higher than The Seychelles. Nevertheless, Aruba has decided to go a step further and removed all entry requirements recently.

Recognizing the need for a tourism revival, the Dutch outpost scrapped all health-related travel protocols, returning to a pre-2020 state of normality much earlier than other Caribbean hotspots that would only follow suit weeks later. As of March, 2022, Aruba’s pristine beaches and traditional colonial-era towns are once again open to avid explorers.

In summary:
- No mandatory vaccination passports
- No pre-departure tests, regardless of Covid vaccination
- No post-arrival tests
- No mandatory quarantine
- All nationalities are welcome
2. British Virgin Islands

Second on the list of countries most eager to welcome back visitors, the British Virgin Islands are heavily dependent on the dollar. With nearly 33% of GDP being linked to traveler expenses, and a tourism-based economy, the Caribbean archipelago has remained open for visitation throughout the crisis, albeit with strict protocols.

Some groups are pushing for a wider reopening, especially now that international travel demand has surged, but the British Virgin Islands Administration has remained conservative in regards to pandemic management. They may well acknowledge that tourism is important, but some entry requirements remain in place.

Essentially, all arrivals must present a negative PCR or Rapid Antigen test, including:
- A vaccination certificate to be exempt from post-arrival testing
- Travel insurance covering Covid infection and any treatment costs
Unvaccinated travelers are exempt from further testing and quarantine, while the non-immunized remain subject to undergoing a post-arrival Rapid Antigen test at a cost of $50. Those who test positive are then required to quarantine for a full week; those who do not are free to enjoy their beach time as soon as they leave the airport.

The British Virgin Islands are proof that, even though they are now looking to increase revenue after Covid was controlled in the vast majority of the Western World, this does not necessarily mean a full lifting of restrictions. Fortunately for unvaccinated sunseekers, these 5 other Caribbean nations have reopened.

1. The Maldives

Leading the rank, The Maldives has a tourism contribution to its GDP at almost 39%, with the Bounce study finding that tourists bring in more than a billion US dollars into the country annually. It is far, by far and away, the nation the most excited now that Covid is becoming less of a global emergency.

Earlier this year, The Maldives became the 15th country to drop all Covid curbs, meaning vacationers are again welcome under 2019 entry rules. Along with Aruba, this island-nation is one of two destinations on this list where Covid is effectively being treated as an endemic disease: there are absolutely no health documentation required when traveling.

As of March 14, the below apply to all travelers regardless of country of departure or immunization status:
- No vaccination certificates
- No pre-departure testing
- No post-arrival testing
- No quarantine
- No mandatory health insurance
To learn more about which countries have already reopened and which ones still have entry rules in place, make sure you follow all the latest Travel Off Path updates.

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June 12, 2022
Disney To Launch Newest Cruise Ship – Here’s What Travelers Can Expect

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Disney Cruise Line is finally all set to launch its newest cruise ship, having taken receipt of the vessel during the week. When it comes to travel, few experiences can match the magic, wonder and memories that are provided by a Disney vacation, with fun for all the family all but a guarantee – and the experience is just as magical out on the open seas as it is at a Disney theme park.

Whether a Disneyphile, a cruise lover or simply a wanderlust traveler, the addition of a new ship to Disney’s fleet has something for all types of travelers to get excited about.

Here’s what travelers can expect from Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, including what kind of amenities it will have on board, which destinations it will be sailing to and how the magic of the happiest place on Earth is recreated on the waves.

Disney’s Latest Ship – Information For Travelers

Founded in 1995, Disney Cruise Line might not be the biggest name in the cruise industry, but it might just be the most loved. Sailing a number of different routes, such as along the Pacific Coast, the Caribbean and Europe, Disney Cruise Line currently has four ships in its fleet – Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy – but very soon, its total number of vessels will grow to five.

After years of waiting for the completion of the building process and test sailing events, Disney Cruise Line finally took ownership of their latest mega-ship, Disney Wish, which is the first of several planned Triton class ships for the company. The ship is scheduled to arrive at Port Canaveral on June 20th, before setting sail later on this year – much to the delight of Disney and cruise fans across the country.

As one may expect, Disney touches can be found all over the ship, from subtle motifs to immersive experiences. Each of the ship’s staterooms are “equipped with innovations that ensure the ultimate in comfort and relaxation for Guests of all ages”, and allow guests to relax in the utmost comfort whilst still tastefully carrying on the Disney theme throughout.

On board Wish, guests can expect to receive the royal Disney treatment. Kids both big and small can look forward to the world’s first Frozen-themed theatrical dining experience, where they will be treated to musical numbers by Elsa and Olaf whilst enjoying hearty Norwegian-inspired cuisine, all in honor of celebrating the engagement of Queen Anna and Kristoff. If that doesn’t float your boat, there’s also the Marvel cinematic dining experience, where you can look forward to meeting your favorite superheroes whilst enjoying top-quality cuisine.

The ship is packed full of things to do for people of ages. From Disney’s first attraction at sea, AquaMouse, to six different swimming pools and a specially designed Toy Story zone, Disney has pulled out all the stops for Disney Wish. Kids can enjoy a stellar Kids Club on Disney Wish, giving them the chance to meet their Disney favorites and enjoy a wide range of fun activities.

For adults, there are a series of subtly decorated Disney bars and restaurants to enjoy, including the Star Wars-themed Hyperspace Lounge and the Cinderella-esque Nightingale’s piano bar – though there are also several regular joints to enjoy when it all gets a bit too much. Quiet Cove is an adult-only district, complete with an infinity pool, bar, and cafe, providing the perfect place to slink away and enjoy being at sea.

The ship’s maiden voyage from Florida is scheduled July 14th, and will include a water salute to mark the occasion. Following that, it will leave for regular three and four-night sailings through to Nassau, The Bahamas, and Disney’s own island, Castaway Cay. With flight and hot prices reaching record highs, cruises are a top alternative for travelers – and the Disney Wish will be hard to beat.

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June 11, 2022
U.S. Drops Covid Testing Requirement For International Arrivals By Air
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It was announced earlier today that the U.S. will be dropping its requirement for all international arrivals by air to provide a negative Covid test result in order to enter the country. All Covid testing restrictions to travel to the United States will no longer be effective as of 12:01 a.m. ET on Sunday, June 12.

It was first reported by CNN early on Friday that the Biden administration would be dropping the requirement, and it was later confirmed by the new White House press secretary, Kevin Munoz.

According to the announcement, the US Centers of Disease Control and Prevention will reassess the rule after 90 days, taking into account any possible new variants that might emerge.

Testing Requirement Has Been In Place Since January Of 2021 – To End June 12, 2022

The Covid testing requirement for air travelers to the U.S. began back in January of 2021. When it was first introduced, the requirement was for all travelers aged 2 and over to show a negative rapid antigen test result taken at least 72 hours from departure.

Then in November, the administration tightened the requirements to only 1 day for all unvaccinated U.S. travelers, keeping the 3-day window for fully vaccinated travelers. At the same time, all unvaccinated non-U.S. citizens in barred from entering the country (with limited exceptions).

Covid testing requirements for travel to the United States were further tightened in December in the midst of the Omicron wave, and it was required for all travelers aged 2 and over to the US to show a negative Covid test result within one day of travel, regardless of citizenship.

And the 1-day testing window has remained in place ever since.

Testing Restrictions Only Apply To Air Travelers

It’s important to note that these new travel rules will only apply to international air travelers, as the land border between the U.S.-Mexico and the U.S.-Canada doesn’t require travelers to show a negative Covid test to enter.

According to the official US government guidance, all non-US travelers via land or sea might be required to show proof of full vaccination against Covid, however. This rule has been in effect since January 2022.

Here are the current testing requirements in the US:
- All passengers arriving via air to the US (mainland USA as well as its territories) must show a negative Covid test result taken no later than 1-day from their flight departure.
- Testing requirements apply to all persons over the age of 2, regardless of Covid vaccination status.
As of June 12, 2022, these requirements will no longer be in effect.

Starting June 12, the 1-day negative test requirement ends for:
- Returning U.S. citizens, both vaccinated and unvaccinated
- International arrivals, only fully vaccinated, as a vaccine requirement still exists for non-U.S. citizens to enter.
What About The Vaccine Requirement For International Travelers?

While a negative Covid test will no longer be required for air travelers to the US, unvaccinated non-US citizens and residents still won’t be able to visit the country for non-essential reasons.

So even though the testing requirements have been dropped, the United States won’t be joining this list of countries that have dropped all of their Covid-related entry requirements for international arrivals just yet.

Announcement Follows Months Of Pressure By Airlines And Travel Industry

Many companies in the travel industry including most US-based airlines have been pressing the Biden administration for months to drop the testing requirement for international air arrivals, arguing that it is no longer effective as a number of other nations have dropped their requirements.

Canada, Mexico, as well as many countries throughout Europe (including the UK) dropped their testing requirements while the US has held out. Many airline officials made positive remarks following today’s announcement.

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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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June 11, 2022
Italy Vacations Threatened As Airport Staff Announce Strikes Over Summer

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Europe’s summer travel chaos will only get worse.

Now that travel demand is back to 2019 levels and most countries have removed entry rules, Europe as a whole is failing to handle higher passenger numbers amid reports of reduced airport staff. In Italy, the situation is particularly concerning, as operators have just announced strikes over summer, casting shadows over the vacations of millions.

On Wednesday (June 8), several air traffic controllers walked out of their posts for a full 24 hours, seriously disrupting travel to and from Italy and other European countries. The move brought to a halt airport operations in major Italian hubs, leading carriers like ITA Airways, EasyJet and Ryanair to ax a number of flights.

Unfortunately, this could be replicated in the (much busier) summer months as passenger numbers increase:

Strike Causes Several Flights To Be Cancelled Across Italy

Earlier this week, millions of travelers faced disruption in Italy after unionized air traffic controllers went on strike. The situation was only aggravated when unions then called on workers from certain budget airlines, such as Ryanair, to join the strike for four hours, resulting in hundreds of delays and cancellations.

According to UIL Trasporti, the actual Union behind the strike, a whopping 360 flights were axed and 4,000 passengers directly impacted. Those scheduled to fly with Ryanair were most affected, as both UIL Trasporti and FILT-CGIL, another worker’s Union, urged a four-hour strike for the company’s workers in Italy.

Their main complaints were centered on cuts to pay linked to on-board sales and tough labor conditions endured by Ryanair staff. The company, Europe’s biggest budget airline serving hundreds of destinations in the continent and beyond, later denied that its crew took part in the strikes – even though their flight scheduled was affected.

According to a spokesperson, the delays and cancellations customers suffered are linked to air traffic controllers walking out. At least 14 flights set to depart from Milan were grounded, with London-bound passengers bearing the brunt of it. Ryanair has apologized for the inconvenience, but maintained that strikes are beyond their control.

Fellow low-cost carrier EasyJet also blamed their multiple Wednesday cancellations on Italy’s controllers walking out. Passengers scheduled to fly to Bologna, Milan, Naples, Rome and Venice all had their long-anticipated summer vacation ruined. ITA Airways experienced similar disturbances, but managed to re-route most of its passengers to avoid the strike.

Disruptions To Continue All Through Summer

While air operations have since resumed, the Unions involved continue to list poor pay conditions for their action, as well as ‘arbitrary reductions of paychecks, the non-payment of sick days, the company’s refusal to grant leave during the summer season, and the lack of water and meals for the crew’.

Signalling they will call more strikes in the upcoming months if an agreement is not reached soon, an UIL Trasporti spokesperson conceded that ‘this will be only the first of a series of protest actions that will make the summer hot‘. Regretfully, it is unlikely airports – and airlines – will manage to overcome their current challenges in the short-term.

Airports in Europe are already struggling badly due to being understaffed at a time when passenger numbers are soaring, and a vast majority of European hubs predict a chaotic summer ahead. With the possibility of further strikes ahead, this will only worsen the 2022 aviation crisis, even after Covid is gone.

Expect Travel Delays In Italy In The Next Few Weeks

Over summer, snaking queues and overwhelmingly busy departure halls will be a common sight across Europe, as the industry goes on a hiring spree to try and save the first post-Covid tourist season. In total, 191.000 aviation workers were made redundant during the pandemic, making it virtually impossible for airports to fill in all gaps before summer starts.

Italy may have fully lifted all pandemic-related restrictions on June 1, again allowing foreigners to visit regardless of vaccination status, but vacationers may now have more pressing issues – other than Covid – at hand. If you’re flying to Italy soon, check the status of your flight before proceeding to the airport and get insured for cancellations before traveling.

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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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June 10, 2022