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American Airlines Launches Flights To Barcelona As Spain Reopens For All U.S. Travelers

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Following a 32-month pause, American Airlines is finally reinstating its seasonal flights to Barcelona for summer 2022. Since June 3, U.S. citizens have been able to fly nonstop between Chicago and Spain’s leading tourist destination, as the American carrier opens up yet another route for Europe-bound vacationers.

A metropolitan city extremely rich in History and ideal for sightseeing, Barcelona sits on Spain’s eastern coast, being the gateway to the autonomous region of Catalonia. Even though Madrid is the number one city in Spain, Barcelona houses some of its most iconic landmarks, including La Sagrada Familia and several Gaudi monuments.

Travel Demand Is Back Now That Most Covid Rules Are Scrapped

Tourism in Europe may have come to a standstill throughout the Covid crisis, but now that the continent is opening its borders once more and dropping most entry requirements, demand for travel is shooting up dramatically. Similarly to other European nations, Spain has also eased its travel rules recently.

Once the Mediterranean hotspot signaled it was moving away from its once-strict Covid policies, American Airlines was quick to relaunch service between two of the busiest airports in the United States and Spain. This means nonstop flights to Barcelona are officially back to Chicago O’Hare International (ORD), just in time for summer.

The last time American offered service on this route had been October 2019, prior to Covid being declared a pandemic in early 2020. While the virus was yet to be controlled, and more disruptive variants kept surging, the route remained unavailable. For two consecutive summers, American Airlines customers based in Chicago were unable to reach Barcelona directly.

That is no longer the case.

American Airlines Ends Two Year Hiatus As Barcelona Route Is Relaunched

The hiatus ended last Friday (3) when American resumed operations on its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, carrying 234 passengers. Similarly to pre-pandemic summers, the Chicago-Barcelona flights will run through October 29, 2022, when the summer/fall tourist season ends in Spain and Europe on an extent.

The AA40 flight leaves Chicago (ORD) at 17:35, arriving to Barcelona (BCN) the following day at 9:00, on a daily frequency. Returning to America, the AA41 flight departs from BCN at 11:35, landing in ORD at 14:35 local time, also daily. Depending on date selection and seating, one-way Economy tickets can range between USD 823.59 and USD 2.819,25.

Besides Chicago, American is also offering flights to Barcelona from 3 other U.S. hubs, including Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), and Philadelphia (PHL). On top of that, the carrier operates on five other routes to Madrid, Spain’s capital: those flights leave from Charlotte (CLT), Dallas (DFW), MIA, JFK and PHL. Frequency is daily in all of them.

Can Americans Visit Spain Restriction-Free?

All Americans are eligible to visit Spain, albeit with different requirements based on vaccination.

The fully immunized are no longer subject to pre-departure testing when boarding a flight to Spain, but the non-vaccinated remain subject to presenting either a negative PCR test result issued less than 72 hours before arrival, or a negative Rapid Antigen (24 hours).

Irrespective of vaccination, U.S. citizens do not have to enter mandatory quarantine or undergo further testing when arriving to Spain. Additionally, Spanish authorities no longer require proof of vaccination to enter enclosed spaces, such as restaurants, travel on public transportation, or visit cultural venues.

Once they are in, all are welcome to explore the Iberian Peninsula’s leading nation hassle-free.

While it has eased its strict Covid-era entry protocols, now allowing the unvaccinated to enter again by presenting negative tests, Spain has refused to drop the mask rule across public transport, including planes. This means mask usage is still necessary when riding on city buses, intercity trains, and when flying within Spain.

What Are Some Of Barcelona’s Main Attractions?

Barcelona is an open air museum and one of Europe’s oldest cities. An intricate maze of narrow streets full of color and countless historical monuments. Housing the impressive Sagrada Familia, which will soon be finished after 144 years, the 13th century Barcelona Cathedral, and the picturesque Latin Quarter, it has enough sights to keep tourists busy for days on end.

Close to Barcelona, popular day trips include visits to the Costa Brava, where charming seaside towns can be found along Catalonia’s Mediterranean coast, the medieval cities of Girona and Lleida, and even the small Catalan-speaking nation of Andorra, which borders Spain and France.

Luckily, all these wonders are now only an 8-hour flight away from the U.S. with American Airlines.

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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
Eastern Europe Is Now The Most Restriction Free Area Of The World
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Being the first collective of nations to bar tourism in the wake of Covid, Europe is ironically paving the way for the reinstatement of international travel and pushing for pre-pandemic normality. More than half of the continent has dropped Covid entry requirements, and along its Eastern front, the Balkans have become the most-restriction free area in the world.

Especially after major setbacks like Omicron, the continent’s barriers were put up high and complex travel rules made it virtually impossible for many to visit. Even though the Balkans have always had a more relaxed approach to Covid, with countries like Croatia and Albania for the best part, the whole peninsula has now decided to abolish entry curbs fully.

These are wonderful news, considering that navigating Covid rules while crossing the Balkans’ borders was extremely challenging before:

What Are The Balkans?

Geographically, the Balkans are a peninsula in Eastern Europe comprising 12 countries. 9 of those are located almost entirely in the peninsula, including Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria. Also included are parts of Slovenia and Romania, the Greek mainland, and European Turkey.

Politically, the term ‘The Balkans’ traditionally refers to modern states that were once aligned with Post-War Communism, including those that were once part of a wider, now-defunct country called Yugoslavia (Croatia, BiH, Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Slovenia), and then Albania, Romania, and Bulgaria.

The Balkans Are Open For Travel

Irrespective of what definition of the Balkans you use – whether it’s the purely geographical or political – this region is entirely open for tourism, irrespective of nationality or vaccination status. From the castle-dotted, alpine peaks of Westernmost Slovenia, to Easternmost Turkey’s vibrant metropolises, the Balkans have no restrictions in place whatsoever.

Even though other European countries have also reopened, some in the West have staunchly refused to drop all rules. That is the case with France and Portugal, which still require at least one type of Covid certification from a majority of travelers. As it is open, and geographically being a group of 12 states, the Balkans are officially the freest region in the world for travelers right now.

As can be seen on IATA’s Covid-19 Travel Regulations Map, the Balkan Freedom Bubble, as we are dubbing it, is clearly the easiest zone to country-hop at the moment:

IATA Covid 19 Travel Regulations Map – Source: https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/world.php

Crossing Borders In The Balkans Is As Easy As Ever

Even if you have your heart set on visiting a single country, such as Croatia, it is very likely you will end up crossing a border or two. As Balkan states are tiny, in most cases you will be passing through other countries to reach your final destination, which makes country-hopping across the peninsula super easy – especially when driving.

For example, when using Dubrovnik as your entry point into the Balkans, you will likely pass through a section of Bosnia and Herzegovina to reach other hotspots in Croatia, such as Split or Zadar. That is because Bosnia’s only access to the sea separates Dubrovnik from the rest of Croatia’s coast by a 9 km stretch.

While this may sound exciting for those looking to tick off as many countries as possible, crossings in the region can be a very unpleasant experience when there is traffic. During Covid it was a big hassle, as each Balkan country had set out their own entry guidelines: being allowed into Croatia did not necessarily mean you would be granted entry into Bosnia.

Now, the whole peninsula has re-established pre-pandemic entry guidelines, and you are free to travel the Balkan countries extensively without having to worry about testing for Covid prior to a border crossing, or even presenting a vaccine pass. Traveling from Croatia to Bosnia, then Croatia again, ending up in Slovenia or vice-versa is as easy as ever.

All Are Welcome Irrespective Of Covid Status

In sum, there are:
- No pre-departure tests, irrespective of vaccination
- No vaccination requirements
- No recovery letter for the unvaccinated
- No post-arrival tests
- No mandatory quarantine
- No other health-related entry requirement
Countries that have at least a part of their territory in the Balkans, and that are open for travel are the following:
- Albania (100% in the Balkans)
- Bosnia and Herzegovina (100%)
- Bulgaria (100%)
- Kosovo (100%)
- Montenegro (100%)
- North Macedonia (100%)
- Greece (83.7%)
- Serbia (65.8%)
- Croatia (42.4%)
- Slovenia (24.7%)
- Romania (4.6%)
- Turkey (3%)
- Italy (0.1%)*
*Italy, yet another country that has removed all entry requirements recently, also has 0.1% of its territory in the Balkan Peninsula.

Even though all of the above countries are again welcoming tourists, we advise you to read more on the History of the Balkans and plan your trip accordingly, as some countries – particularly Serbia and Kosovo – still have unresolved conflicts that may affect travelers. The definition of ‘Balkans’ used on this article has been mostly the geographical one.

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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 9, 2022
Canada Issues New Travel Advisory Due To Monkeypox
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As monkeypox spreads globally, the Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for Canadians traveling overseas. The new Level 2 travel advisory suggests Canadians should practice enhanced health precautions following the emergence of monkeypox.

The Canadian government released the travel advisory on June 7, 2022.

The Full Details Of The Level 2 Travel Advisory

According to the Canadian government, a Level 2 travel health notice “indicates an increased risk to travellers or certain groups of travellers (for example, pregnant women, campers, people visiting friends and relatives) and reminds them to practise enhanced health precautions.”

The Canadian government suggests all Canadians should follow these precautions:
- Use personal protective equipment—such as masks—to minimize the spread of monkeypox
- Delaying all travel until the risk is lower
- Avoiding higher-risk activities
- Taking recommended vaccinations for some groups
- Washing hands at all times, especially after being in close contact with some people
- Being careful if you’re attending mass gatherings or parties
- Being aware of any symptoms, such as a new rash
The Canadian government has issued the advisory if you’re traveling to these destinations:
- Argentina
- Australia
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bolivia
- The Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Israel
- Italy
- Malta
- Mexico
- Morocco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Portugal
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- The United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States
The Canadian government says: “During your travel, you may be subject to procedures at your destination put in place to limit the spread of monkeypox, such as isolation, should you become infected. You may have limited access to timely and appropriate health care should you become ill, and may experience delays in returning home.”

“PHAC is working closely with international, provincial, and territorial health partners to gather information on this evolving issue. Further investigations are underway to determine the likely source of infection and to limit further onward spread.”

The Canadian government says you should see a healthcare professional if you develop symptoms when you’re traveling. In addition, if you have monkeypox symptoms during the flight: “tell the flight attendant before you land or the border services officer as you enter the country.”

What Is Monkeypox?

The Canadian government states: “Monkeypox is a disease that is caused by a virus. It is regularly found in parts of Central and West Africa, where it has been re-emerging in recent years”

They suggest monkeypox can spread in three ways:
- From animals to humans
- From person to person
- Through direct contact with contaminated objects
In addition, monkeypox can spread from person to person via close contact in the following ways:
- Scabs or skin lesions (which may resemble chickenpox)
- Body fluids or blood
- Mucosal surfaces (including eyes, mouth, throat, and rectum.)
- Contaminated clothing or linens
- Respiratory droplets (coughs and sneezes) may transmit the monkeypox virus, but scientists are still learning.
However, the Canadian government suggests that: “symptoms usually last between 14 and 28 days. Monkeypox is usually a mild, self-limited disease. In rare situations, people may become very sick and death may occur.”

They add: “Treatment for monkeypox is mainly supportive. Vaccines and medications for prevention and treatment are not commercially available at this time.”

Have Other Countries Issued Travel Advisories?

The Canadian government isn’t the first nation to introduce a travel advisory for monkeypox. The United States issued a travel advisory due to monkeypox almost two weeks ago.

The CDC advises Americans to avoid:
- Close contact with sick people, particularly those with skin or genital lesions.
- Touching any dead or live wild animals, such as rats, squirrels, monkeys, and apes.
- Handling all materials used by monkeypox-infected individuals as they could be contaminated.
We will keep you updated on how monkeypox may affect travelers going forward.

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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 9, 2022
American Travelers Will Have Fast Track Entry When Visiting France This Summer
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Traveling abroad for summer 2022 will be much more challenging than initially expected, as countries struggle to keep up with a rising travel demand and staff shortages. Still, some destinations are better prepared than others, and are even simplifying entry for foreigners. This is the case with France, where Americans now enjoy fast track entry.

Although many travelers are not even aware of this, France allows a number of foreign nationals to cross its borders without thorough checks – including U.S. citizens. While this policy has been around for some time, it was not until recently that it gained traction, as airports in Europe become overwhelmingly busy post-Covid:

Americans Can Enter France Without Speaking To A Border Agent

If you’re a regular traveler in the Old Continent, you may be familiar with the layout of European airports. Usually when landing in Europe, passengers have to stand in one out of two lines: the Europeans’ or the third country nationals’. Anyone who does not hold a passport from an European Union (EU) or EU-associated country is considered a third country national.

Naturally, U.S., Canada, Australia and UK passport holders are all considered third country nationals, as they are not EU citizens. With the exception of Brits, who only left the EU recently, these travelers had been for years subject to long wait times until speaking to a border agent, who would then assess whether they would be allowed into France or not.

This is a very common procedure when traveling abroad, as it is a border agent’s job to verify the intentions of a traveler when visiting a country, and whether they meet certain criteria, including financial requirements. As EU citizens have the right to move freely in Europe, they are not subject to these checks and have always been eligible to use eGates.

In France, they are part of an automated border control system called Parafe, which helps French authorities keep track of border crossings to and from France from outside the borderless Schengen Area. These ‘Eletronic Gates’ ensure faster entry when crossing EU borders, as passengers simply have to scan their passport to be allowed in.

Surprisingly, France now allows select non-EU nationalities to scan their way into the country. In order to benefit from Parafe, and cross into France without speaking to a border agent first, travelers must simply be aged 18 years and older, and hold a valid biometric passport from one of the below countries:
- EU nations
- EEA nations (Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway)
- Switzerland
- Andorra
- Monaco
- San Marino
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- South Korea
This means that, even though they are not Europeans, Americans can still use eGates traveling to France at designated entry poins. More specifically, they are eligible for fast-track entry in 7 international airports, including the busy Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly, which both serve Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille and Nice.

U.S. passport holders can also use automated eGates on at least 4 of France’s international train stations, mainly on United Kingdom-France routes. Those are Gare du Nord, in Paris, St Pancras International, on the British side of the border, the Terminal de Coquelles in France, and the Folkstone Terminal in England.

How To Use An eGate In 4 Quick Steps

When using an eGate, travelers are advsied to follow these steps:
- Remove glasses, scarves, hats and face masks
- Place the passport photo page on the electronic reader
- Stand on the footprints indicated on the floor
- Look at the camera in front of you until the facial recognition process is complete
If you’re successful, after a minute or two, the gates of France – and Europe on an extent – will open for you.

Despite More Relaxed Entry Controls, Schengen Area Rules Have Not Changed

Even though Americans are now guaranteed faster entry into France, this does not mean the rule is replicated in other European countries. With the exception of the UK, which also allows U.S. citizens to use eGates, we still have not heard of other European nations granting Americans (and Canadians on an extent) the privilege.

Whenever traveling to France, Americans are again reminded that, even though they may no longer be required to see a border officer at specific entry points, they can only remain in the country (and the Schengen Area as a whole) for 90 days out of every 180-day period. For that purpose, the Parafe system will keep a record of both entry and exit dates.

When caught overstaying, depending on the length of the illegal stay, Americans risk being fined, detained, or even banned from traveling to Europe for a few years. Any visit to the Schengen Area, which include France and 25 other countries, however short, counts towards your 90-days-out-of-every-180 limit.

If in doubt, always use the official Schengen Calculator.

Is France Open For Tourism Right Now?

Right now, France is open to Americans holding a valid Covid certification, and mainly those who are fully immunized. It is not yet part of the group of European countries that have completely removed entry requirements ahead of summer, but it has progressively eased restrictions over the last few months.

Once in France, travelers are no longer required to wear face coverings indoors or outdoors, including in planes, and the Covid-era Pass sanitaire, France’s controversial vaccine passport, is also not in use. Right now, your main concern traveling to France is the rapid spread of monkeypox and the increasing risk of travel disruption due to understaffed airports.

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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 8, 2022
U.S. State Department Updates Travel Advisories For 10 Countries
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The United States’ Department of State has just updated the travel advisory pages for 10 countries around the world. Whilst international travel may have moved closer towards normality over the past few months, it still isn’t completely without risks and challenges – as these updates show – and travel advisories still play a key role in keeping travelers in the loop before they take their trips.

From common, everyday issues such as crime and health concerns, to more serious problems such as terrorism, war and kidnapping to name but a few, travel advisories are routinely updated by the State Department to contain up to date information about the risks associated with different destinations. Here’s a look at which ten countries were included in yesterday’s travel advisory updates, plus a recap of what travel advisories are and how they help travelers.

What Are Travel Advisories? Information For Travelers

Curated and updated by the State Department as often as is required, travel advisories provide simple, clear information about the risks travelers may face when traveling abroad. Travel advisories are color coded and sorted into four different levels – with Level 1 being the least severe and Level 4 being the most severe – to make it quick and easy for travelers to see the risks associated with visiting a specific destination.

In addition to updates from the State Department, each travel advisory contains information from the CDC about whether there is a low, moderate or high level of Covid-19 in the destination. Whilst they do not legally prevent a traveler from visiting a country, they can help a traveler to make an informed decision about whether or not it is a good idea to visit, playing an important role in the pre-travel process.

New Travel Advisory Updates – What Travelers Should Know

The ten new travel advisory updates posted on the State Department’s website yesterday feature all four of the system’s levels. Two countries were handed Level 4 updates – their details are as follows:
- Libya – do not travel to Libya due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and armed conflict. The CDC states it has an unknown level of Covid-19
- Iran – do not travel to Iran due to the risk of kidnapping and the arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens. The CDC has determined that Iran has a low level of Covid-19
Three countries were handed Level 3 warnings, which tell travelers to reconsider travel to such destinations.
- Lebanon – reconsider travel to Lebanon due to crime, terrorism, armed conflict, civil unrest, kidnapping and Embassy Beirut’s limited capacity to provide support to U.S. citizens. The CDC states it has a low level of Covid-19
- Guyana – travelers should reconsider their trips to Guyana due to crime. The CDC has also stated that the country has a high level of Covid-19
- Guatemala – travelers should reconsider their trips to Guatemala due to crime, with some parts of the country designated as no-go areas. The CDC states it has a moderate level of Covid-19
Only one country received a Level 2 travel advisory – Zimbabwe – due to crime, with the CDC adding it has a low level of Covid-19. Four countries received Level 1 travel advisories; these are as follows:
- Saint Kitts and Nevis – CDC indicates a high level of Covid-19
- Poland – CDC indicates a moderate level of Covid-19
- Namibia – CDC indicates a high level of Covid-19
- Mongolia – CDC indicates a high level of Covid-19
Whilst they do provide important information that travelers should be aware of, travelers are free to do their own research and decide whether or not to follow through with their travel plans. Regardless of a country’s travel advisory level, travelers should always make sure they have a good travel insurance policy to keep them safe and protected whatever happens on their vacation.

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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 8, 2022
Delta Says Flights Will See Record Breaking Price Increases This Summer Up To 30 Percent

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Delta Airlines CEO, Ed Bastian, has suggested air fares will increase by up to 30% in the summer months. With rising fuel costs, rising demand, and the end of the COVID-19 pandemic—travelers are witnessing rising air fares in the United States and the rest of the world.

When speaking to investors, Ed Bastian said: “We expect pricing this summer to be up probably somewhere between 25% and 30% on average,”

He added: “We’ve never seen anything of that scale.”

According to statistics, airfares in the United States are up by 25% in the previous 12 months. In fact, airfares jumped by a staggering 16.8% in April alone.

So what should travelers do? Read on to find out!

What Has Delta Airlines Said and How Will It Affect Travelers?

Delta Airlines has predicted its revenue in Q2 will be back to pre-pandemic levels for the first time, even with fewer flights than in 2019. They expect their revenue to be up 8% more than previously expected.

So this is good news for the airlines, right?

Sure.

But it’s not great for travelers like me and you.

The rising fuel costs are due to soar up to 22% above 2018 levels on a per-seat basis, which is more severe than the mid-April forecast of 17%. In addition, many airlines are contending with staff shortages that sometimes require higher worker pay.

As a result, Delta Airlines are raising flight prices to make up for the increased fuel costs.

Although thousands of travelers are complaining about the rising airfares on social media, many airline executives are reluctant to say it’ll deter travelers from traveling this year.

Speaking at the same event, United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby, said: “It you’re worried about pricing destroying demand, you are betting against history,”

He suggests air fares are only back to where they were in 2014 after adjusting for inflation.

Helane Becker, Senior Research Analyst at Cowen, told Bloomberg TV on Monday: “We’re worried about September and what happens in the fall. Avgas prices are going up and up. Airlines are finding labor costs are going up, fuel costs are going up, airport costs are going up. They are facing huge inflationary pressures and need to raise ticket prices and at some point, the consumer is going to say ‘okay, we’ve done our travel, and we’re done, we cannot (afford) to fly again,”

What About International Travel?

For the most part, the increased domestic demand in the United States is driving the rise in flight prices. Although some Americans are traveling overseas after the COVID-19 pandemic—numbers are still down on pre-pandemic levels.

Therefore, international airfares purchased in the United States remain down on pre-pandemic levels.

So travelers can still find excellent deals of flights to Europe, South America, and even the Caribbean or Mexico.

Americans looking to travel within Europe will face the same issues with flight prices. According to Ryanair CEO, Michael O’Leary, flight prices in Europe may increase to a “high single-digit per cent.”

He said: “It seems to us that there will be higher prices into that peak summer period because there’s so much demand for the beaches of Europe and those price rises going to continue,”

The Fast Travel Rebound: How This Affects Travelers

Travel has returned back to pre-pandemic levels within North America in 2022, which is faster than many economists and travel experts expected.

In turn, this has enabled airlines to raise prices for travelers.

However, despite the sharp rebound, travelers are witnessing enormous waiting times and issues at airports due to airlines failing to prepare for the massive travel rebound.

There is also a massive shortage in pilots in the United States. Delta Airlines recently trimmed its summer schedule by up to 3% to enable more time between flights and a smoother service in light of the recent issues.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let the rise in prices put you off traveling in 2022. There are still excellent flight deals out there—especially to Mexico and Europe.

Yes, flights are skyrocketing in the United States. But with the world finally reopening, now might be the best time to travel overseas.

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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 7, 2022
Riu To Open Two New All Inclusive Resorts In Cancun This Year
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Last Updated 15 mins ago

The Spanish hotel chain, Riu is set to open two new all-inclusive – and adult-only – resorts in the hugely-popular city of Cancun, Mexico.

The two hotel resorts – which have recently been named as Hotel Riu Latino and Hotel Riu Palace Kukulkan – will open later this year in October and November, respectively.

Once both properties are up and running – and welcoming guests through their doors – Riu will at this point boast more than twenty active properties in and around Mexico, with most of these in fact being located in the state of Quintana Roo.

The two new additions to Riu’s list of Mexican hotel resorts are also likely to not be the last – with the company’s director having recently described Riu’s properties in the Mexican Caribbean as being the much-needed “oxygen” during the ongoing global pandemic.

This is due to Riu’s Mexican accommodation offerings being able to continue welcoming guests throughout the last two years – with Mexico having had the easiest entry requirements for tourists compared to any other country in the world for large parts of the Covid-19 pandemic.

What Do We Know So Far About Riu’s Two New All Inclusive Resorts Set To Open In Cancun?

What we do know so far is that both hotel resorts are to be all-inclusive and adult-only properties – with guests able to enjoy a variety of entertainment, drinking and dining options during their stay at either resort.

Let’s take a closer look at what Riu’s two new all-inclusive hotel resorts in the city of Cancun are set to offer guests.

Hotel Riu Latino – What We Know So Far

Hotel Riu Latino will be located in Condominio Costa Mujeres – an area that boasts some of the most exclusive and luxurious resorts in the city.

The hotel resort is set to feature:
- 24-hour all-inclusive service
- a Splash Water World water park
- direct access to the Costa Mujeres beach – where guests can take advantage of Rui’s own private beach area with sun loungers
- 550 rooms – with each room offering a wide range of amenities
- a full buffet-style breakfast experience
- five outdoor swimming pools – with some even featuring their own swim-up bar and in-water sun loungers
- access to a Renova Spa – which offers numerous beauty treatments, a steam room, as well as relaxation pools.
The resort is also set to offer a wide variety of entertainment options for both day and night – which includes access to a range of water sport activities, as well as catamaran and snorkeling trips out in the Caribbean waters.

For those who are looking for some nightlife activity, Riu’s entertainment team’s activities programme is sure to not disappoint – with guests able to enjoy live shows, as well as have the opportunity to dance the night away at a nightclub.

Guests are also sure to not be lost when it comes to food and drink – with the hotel resort set to offer a wide variety of ‘wining and dining’ options for guests – including a romantic open-air dining area, as well as a selection of à la carte international cuisines to choose from.

Hotel Riu Palace Kukulkan – What We Know So Far

Hotel Riu Palace Kukulkan will be located in Cancun’s main hotel area – which means that the property is situated within close proximity to some of the city’s most stunning beaches.

The hotel resort is set to feature:
- 24-hour all-inclusive service
- 400 superior-class rooms
- a full buffet-style breakfast experience
- a variety of dining options – including à la carte restaurants offering a range of some of the world’s most popular cuisines
- a sun terrace
- four outdoor swimming pools – with one of the pools offering guests the opportunity to have a drink at its swim-up bar
- a gym
- a fun daytime entertainment program
- live music shows.
The resort’s guests can take advantage of other Riu hotel chain facilities in the surrounding area – which includes water sport activities, such as kayaking, sailing, and bodyboarding.

Guests will also be able to relax and unwind with access to a Renova Spa – where they will be able to enjoy a variety of different body treatments – as well as take a dip in the spa’s relaxation pools and steam bath.

Other New Hotel Resorts And Entertainment Venues Set To Open In Cancun

The news that yet another one of the world’s most well-known hotel companies, Riu, is set to open two new all-inclusive resorts in Cancun is likely to not come as a surprise – due to the huge demand for hotel rooms in the city.

A few weeks ago we reported that the world’s biggest hotel chain, Marriott, is to open a brand new all-inclusive resort in Cancun – which is even set to have its very own water park on site.

Just last week we featured an article which revealed that a new mega theme park – ‘Malltertainment’ will soon be built next to the hugely popular Moon Palace Cancun resort.

Another ‘giant’ in the hotel industry business, Hyatt, also recently announced their plans to open a Grand Hyatt Beach Resort in the city – which is set to become the hotel chain’s 19th resort in the city of Cancun.

The company plans to open the 500-room luxury resort in 2024 – in time for the busy summer holiday period.

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June 7, 2022
These 5 U.S. Airports have the Longest TSA Security Wait Times

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The next 3 months will undoubtedly be the busiest times for air travel this year. Fueled by 2 years of lock-downs, people have been deprived of vacations.

Now is the time for them to get out into the world and make up for all those missed flights and destinations.

With kids being out of school and a lot of parents able to take their vacation, this summer is looking like one for the books. Airlines are selling flights at pre-pandemic levels, and airports and airlines are having trouble with the unprecedented demand for air travel.

From understaffed airlines to hour long security lines at airports, the truth of the matter is that air travel this summer will be nothing short of chaotic over the next few months.

There are however ways to mitigate long wait times and one of the best ways to do that is by avoiding airports with the longest wait times because let’s face it; not every airport is the same.

Frequent domestic flyers know that no two airports are ever alike, and we all have that one airport that we dread flying into or out of.

Some airports aren’t just inconvenient or more expensive to fly out of, some actually require longer security wait times.

This means that if you want to make your travels easier this summer, you’ll be wise to avoid these 5 airports with the longest TSA wait times.

Bounce analyzed data from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the US Customs and Border Protection. To determine the average wait time at each airport, the company totaled the wait times at security and passport control.

Be aware that the list does not include time spent collecting luggage or traveling through terminals, passengers should therefore anticipate even longer wait times.

The US airports with the longest wait times

5. O’Hare International Airport (Chicago, Illinois)

Total wait time: 39 minutes, 26 seconds

Average security wait time: 19 minutes, 18 seconds

Average passport control wait time: 20 minutes, 8 seconds

O’Hare International Airport is the world’s fourth-busiest airport, serving around 54 million passengers in 2021.

4. John F. Kennedy International Airport (New York, New York)

Total wait time: 45 minutes, 54 seconds

Average security wait time: 25 minutes

Average passport control wait time: 19 minutes, 54 seconds

John F. Kennedy International Airport is the busiest airport in New York, serving 30.7 million passengers in 2021.

3. San Francisco International Airport (San Francisco, California)

Total wait time: 45 minutes, 56 seconds

Average security wait time: 27 minutes, 48 seconds

Average passport control wait time: 18 minutes, 8 seconds

San Francisco International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the US, serving over 24 million passengers in 2021.

2. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)

Total wait time: 46 minutes, 41 seconds

Average security wait time: 18 minutes, 18 seconds

Average passport control wait time: 28 minutes, 23 seconds

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is one of three airports in the greater Miami area. More than 28 million passengers traveled through the airport in 2021.

1. Miami International Airport (Miami, Florida)

Total wait time: 46 minutes 57 seconds

Average security wait time: 24 minutes, 54 seconds

Average passport control wait time: 22 minutes, 3 seconds

Miami International Airport is Florida’s second-busiest airport. It served over 37 million passengers in 2021.

The airport has an online security checkpoint portal that states the expected wait time.

If you want to minimize travel troubles for this summer, be sure to avoid these 5 airports above, and if you can’t avoid them be sure to give yourself plenty of time between connecting flights and departures.

READ MORE:

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June 6, 2022
These Are The Top U.S. Attractions This Summer According To Google Searches
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As the world reopens, restrictions vanish, and attractions fully reopen—Americans are visiting their favorite destinations despite rising gas costs and increased flight prices.

And according to Google, these destinations are the top-searched destinations in summer 2022 for Americans:

1. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park was the world’s first national park and is perhaps America’s most splendid. It was the most searched destination among Americans this summer.

Yellowstone National Park stretches over 3,472 square miles—with the highest peak at 11,358 feet. The park is so vast it’s bigger than the states of Delaware and Rhode Island combined. In 2019, over 4 million tourists visited the national park.

Yellowstone National Park is also home to 67 species of mammals, 285 species of birds, 5 species of amphibians, and 16 species of fish.

Best Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park
- Hike to the Old Faithful Observation Point
- Visit the Upper Geyser Basin and Geyser Hill
- Marvel at the Fairy Falls
Opening Times:

Entry Fees:
- Private non-commercial vehicle – $35 (valid for 7 days)
- Motorcycle – $30 (valid for 7 days)
- Single entry – $20 (valid for 7 days)
- Annual pass – $70 (valid for 365 days)
2. The Glacier National Park

The second most searched destination for Americans in the summer of 2022 is the Glacier National Park. Located within the incredible Rocky Mountains—often referred to as The Rockies—the Glacier National Park spans 1,583 square miles.

Furthermore, the Glacier National Park is notorious for its incredible hiking trails. Popular trails include the Grinnell Glacier Trail, Avalanche Lake via the Trail of the Cedars, Highline Trail: Logan Pass to Granite Park Chalet, the Hidden Lake Trail, and the Iceberg Lake Trail.

There are currently—although the number is decreasing—26 glaciers in the Glacier National Park. The largest glacier is the Blackfoot Glacier. However, the 25 other glaciers are stunning. The national park remains incredibly popular; it attracted 3.05 million visitors in 2019.

Best Things To Do In Glacier National Park
- Visit Grinnell Glacier
- Walk around Lake McDonald
- Drive down Going-to-the-Sun Road
Opening Times:

Entry Fees:
- Private vehicle entrance fee – $35
- Individual entrance fee – $20
- Motorcycle entrance fee – $30
- Annual pass – $70
3. Disney World

After two years of COVID-19 restrictions, Disney World is open without restrictions.

Disney had a mask mandate at its theme parks for almost two years. But masks are now optional at Disney World. In addition, travelers don’t need to be fully vaccinated to enter Disney World.

However, Disney World suggests travelers presenting symptoms of COVID-19—such as fever, chills, fatigue, aches, shortness of breath, and congestion—should not enter the theme park.

Best Things To Do At Disney World
- Ride on Space Mountain
- Enjoy views on Thunder Mountain
- Go on the Pirates of the Caribbean indoor cruise
Opening Times:
- Magic Kingdom Park – 9 am to 11 pm
- EPCOT – 8 am to 8 pm
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios – 8.30 am to 9 pm
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park – 8 am to 8 pm
- Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – 10 am to 6 pm
Entry Fees:
- 1 Park Per Day Ticket – $109 per ticket
- Park Hopper Option – $169 per ticket
- Park Hopper Plus Option – $194 per ticket
4. Lake Tahoe

Americans seeking a peaceful summer vacation should look no further than Lake Tahoe. The extensive freshwater lake is within the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The lake is over 2 million years old, and experts have tested the water as 99.994% pure.

If you’re looking for gorgeous beaches but don’t fancy heading to Florida, California, or Mexico, Lake Tahoe is an excellent spot.

The lake receives around 15 million visitors yearly, making it one of the most popular destinations in the United States. It’s not hard to see why!

Best Things To Do At Lake Tahoe
- Visit Emerald Bay
- Hike at South Lake Tahoe
- Enjoy the Lake Tahoe Boat Cruise
Opening Times:
- Sand Harbor – open 365 days a year between 7:00 AM and one hour after sunset.
- Spooner Lake – open from sunrise to sunset each day.
- Cave Rock – open from sunrise to sunset each day.
Entry Fees:
- Sand Harbor, Spooner Lake, and Cave Rock – $10.00 for Nevadans and $15.00 for everyone else.
5. Hershey Park

Last but not least, Hershey Park is the 5th most searched destination in the United States in the summer of 2022. Situated in Hershey, Pennsylvania, Hershey Park is a family theme park 95 miles west of Philadelphia.

In addition, the theme park includes an impressive 121 acres of outdoor activities mixed with green spaces, shady trees, and gorgeous summer sunshine.

The park also has a zoo, museum, 13 roller coasters, 15 water attractions, and 26 children’s rides.

Best Things To Do At Hershey Park
- Explore the Hershey Gardens
- Visit Chocolate World
- Ride on Laff Trakk
Opening Times:
- 11 am to 7 pm on weekdays or 11 am to 8 pm on weekends
Entry Fees:
- 1-Day Ticket (Ages 9 – 61) – $56.95
- 1-Day Ticket (Ages 3-8 / 62+) – $54.95
- 2-Day Ticket (Ages 9 – 61) – $49 per day
- 2-Day Ticket Junior & Senior (Ages 3-8 / 62+) – $48 per day
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June 6, 2022
Airlines Rally Together Against Testing Rule To Enter U.S.

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Several different airlines across the country have rallied together in an effort to fight against the Covid-19 testing rule that’s currently required to enter the country via air. Despite several countries around the world either considerably easing or removing their Covid-19 related entry requirements, the U.S. has yet to do so. Even though its nearby neighbors Canada and Mexico do not requiring testing, the U.S. has stood firm on the rule and airlines in the country are not happy.

With all signs pointing towards a busy summer of travel – despite the issues the industry is facing – as it stands it will be American travelers returning home who’ll be out of luck and out of pocket regarding the current testing rules. Here’s a look at what the airlines have had to say about the current Covid-19 testing rules, why they feel they have to go and what steps they’ve taken to get them changed.

Airlines Challenge Testing Requirements – Information For Travelers

According to the CDC, travelers who are flying into the United States – regardless of their vaccination status or their citizenship – must take a viral Covid-19 viral test no more than 1 day before their flight. Alternatively, travelers may also show proof of recovery from Covid-19 in the form of a positive test result taken no more than 90 days before the flight’s departure and a letter from a licensed healthcare provider or a public health official stating that they are cleared to travel.

Whereas once this was the norm in countries across the world at the height of the pandemic, many countries have now removed such a requirement – leaving the United States in the travel dark ages when it comes to entry requirements. However, major airlines across the country are fighting to get the rule overturned to make entry into the country much easier for travelers.

The United States’ testing rules were described by American Airlines Chief Executive Robert Isom as “nonsensical” – and he has a point. Isom pointed out the fact that the Boston Red Sox baseball team flew to Toronto to play a game, yet rode a bus home to avoid the testing requirements, with those who cross the land border not needing to take a Covid-19 test like those who fly into the US.

Isom, who pleaded his case with politicians during the week, also highlighted the negative impact that the rule was having on US tourism. Currently, international travel figures in the US are down 14% compared to pre-pandemic levels, with Americans worried about testing positive and becoming stranded abroad. He also stated that 75% of the countries currently served by American do not have testing requirements.

Delta were also amongst the airlines criticizing the current policy, with Chief Executive Ed Bastian highlighting the fact that 44 of 50 countries the airline serves do not require testing. Bastian stated that removing the policy would result in a travel boom. He said:

“We know it will help induce and incent travelers to go abroad, bring more commerce in, more business in so hopefully they will get it done soon.”

Airlines for America, a trade association and lobbying group that represents major North American airlines, also met with a deputy White House Covid-19 coordinator Tuesday in a bid to try and get the testing rules reversed. Whilst the government hasn’t yet given any indication that the requirement will be dropped, travelers will be hoping that the constant pressure on all sides will lead to changes sooner rather than later.

Read More:

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June 5, 2022