Tag: Covid

Thailand To Start Treating Covid Like The Flu From October
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In a new development even the most optimistic didn’t see coming, Thailand will outpace the vast majority of Asia, and even the Western Hemisphere, in treating Covid as an endemic disease. From October, the once ultra-strict country will downgrade the pathogen to the same category as the flu virus, effectively treating both the same.

After more than two years of enforcing strict regulations aimed at curbing the viral spread, Thailand has progressively eased its stance this year, dropping the highly controversial Thailand Pass, which was seen as a barrier for most foreign visitors, and rescinding all mask requirements. Now, it will be taking yet another huge step in reinstating normality.

Here is everything you need to know about Thailand’s reclassifying of Covid and what it means for tourists:

Thailand Close To Fully Reinstating Normality

Unlike other popular tourist hotspots, like Germany and Cyprus, that have recently made a U-turn and tightened pandemic rules once more, Thailand is pursuing a different path irrespective of the rise of new Omicron sub-variants. You may be wondering why, seeing that it stood among some of the most conservative Asian states not that long ago.

In sum, the Ministry of Public Health, responsible for the anti-Covid response, has finally conceded the situation has begun to ‘stabilize’, and the virus, albeit still ‘dangerous’, no longer justifies a state of emergency. Interestingly, cases in Thailand have remained stable while other neighboring countries have seen new spikes.

According to data shared by Worldometers, the moving average of new reported cases is 2,190 for the 7-day period ending on, and preceding August 11 – roughly the same as a month ago on July 11, when the rolling average was 2,134. There has been a slight increase, yes, but this has not strained the local health sector, nor led to a surge in deaths.

For that reason, Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, a central figure in Thailand politics during the pandemic years, has confirmed Covid will join other viruses such as influenza, perpetrator of the flu, and dengue, responsible for dengue fever, on a list of communicable diseases that simply need ‘monitoring’.

Visiting Thailand Is The Easiest It’s Been Since 2020

This will happen as soon as October, and will ‘reflect the reality‘ of the pandemic in Thailand, according ot Charnvirakul himself. Previously, Thailand had resorted to numerous lockdowns and social curbs to keep the virus under control, going as far as barring entry of foreigners into numerous destinations in an attempt to keep new variants out.

Up until recently, tourists had also been subject to strict vaccine, testing, and isolation mandates, as well as Thailand’s infamously confusing quarantine entry schemes. While it has yet to mimic the likes of Mexico, or even its fellow Asian partner Vietnam, in fully scrapping entry requirements, visiting Thailand is now the easiest it’s been since 2020.

Essentially, foreigners must provide one of the following documents to be granted quarantine-free entry:
- An active vaccination certificate, or
- A negative Covid test (RT-PCR or Lateral Flow) within 72 hours of boarding their flight
Is Covid Finally Taking A Back Seat?

By effectively declaring the disease as endemic, as it previously indicated it would, Thailand is re-asserting itself as a friendly tourist destination, and completely shifting their Covid strategy. Not our words, the Health Minister’s: he believes it is now up to the public to look after their own health, instead of being closely guarded by the national government.

In his statement, the Minister lists the ‘readiness’ of Thailand’s healthcare system, as well as access to treatment, as reasons why Covid is no longer as disruptive as it once was. Prior to this update, the virus had shared the same status as the plague and smallpox, two other conditions that indeed threaten lives and the functioning of society.

As a matter of fact, monkeypox, an entity closely related to the latter, has been doing the rounds lately and prompted numerous destinations, and even the World Health Organization, to sound the alarm. As new, more pressing issues face travelers, including new health concerns, Covid seems to be finally taking a back seat.

In Thailand, this will be official beginning this fall.

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

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August 13, 2022
France Ends All Covid Restrictions For Travelers

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Beginning today, August 1^st 2022, France has officially ended all Covid restrictions for international travelers. As the country reopens completely, travelers will no longer need to test before arrival.

Travelers will also not need to present proof of recovery from Covid-19 and will not require proof that they have been vaccinated. Travelers will no longer need to have a ‘compelling reason’ for entering the country and can come and go like they could before the pandemic.

This is excellent news for travelers hoping to spend a lovely holiday in France. Hopefully, this will be the definitive end to all Covid restrictions in the country.

Though France has ended all Covid restrictions starting today, the French government still retains the right to activate “emergency brake” measures for up to two months in the event of a new variant or significant increase in cases. This “emergency brake” contingency is valid until January 31^st, 2023. After the 31st, the government cannot reintroduce measures without parliamentary approval.

An Open France & Europe

France’s decision to end all Covid restrictions is one more step toward all major European destinations being restriction free. The Netherlands and Spain are the last remaining major destinations in Europe that still have Covid protocols in place. Both of which still require proof of vaccination for passengers from certain countries.

The world is easing into normality after two years of extra travel protocols. As it does, travelers are sure to seek out countries that have fully rescinded their Covid protocols. Testing costs, the extra time spent in line, and the general hassle of restrictions have been obstacles for many travelers. Countries that still have them in place are likely to see fewer tourists than those without restrictions.

Travel Is Easier, For The Most Part

While travel will be easier without Covid restrictions, travelers should be wary of delays plaguing airports in France. For instance, between July 1^st and July 10^th, Charles De Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris only had 38% of its flights operate on time. This has become the new normal when flying, it seems. Staffing shortages and increased demand have put a lot of pressure on the aviation industry.

Avoiding The Chaos

It should be noted that Orly Field Airport (ORY), also in Paris, had 79% of its flights operate on time during the same period between July 1^st and July 10^th. If given a choice, travelers will be more likely to have a smooth experience by flying into ORY. The difference between airports can significantly impact travel, making it essential to know which European airports are the best for avoiding flight delays.

Another way travelers visiting France can avoid long lines is by taking advantage of fast-track entry when coming into the country. France now allows certain non-EU nationalities to come into the country by taking advantage of their Parafe Electronic Gates. The gates allow travelers to cross into France without speaking to a border agent. The most significant benefit to this process is the decreased wait times, as the lines are typically shorter and faster. Travelers hailing from the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, and several other countries are now allowed to use the system.

Travelers Love France

France, and Paris especially, has always been a highly sought destination by tourists. Recently, a TikTok survey revealed that Paris was the 6^th most viewed destination on the platform, with 11.2 billion views as of May 17^th, 2021. Airlines have noticed the increased interest, and France’s French Bee Airline recently announced $281 nonstop flights from Miami to Paris to take advantage of the destination’s popularity. The flights will begin this December and will operate three times per week.

A Post Covid World

As France, Europe, and the rest of the world continues to open up without restrictions, travelers are more eager than ever to return to the way things were before the pandemic. Though staffing shortages and supply chain issues still hinder some aspects of travel, the scrapping of restrictions is making travel easier for all parties. Travelers, staff, airports, and airlines will benefit as the world continues to reopen.

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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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August 2, 2022
CDC Adds 6 More Countries To High Risk List Amid New Covid Wave
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While it may have seemed like the darker days of Covid were behind us, the silent threat remains very much real, as several countries battle a new potentially disruptive wave. The United States’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, shortened to CDC, is keeping track of the developments, and has now added a further 6 countries to its Level 3 ‘High Risk’ list.

Effectively, the list comprises destinations where the average Covid case count exceeds 100 per 100,000 population, signalling the virus is in active circulation and infection/complication risks are higher. As part of the new Level 3 batch, we have:
- El Salvador
- Honduras
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Poland
- Fiji
- Bangladesh
The unlucky six are now part of a collective of 121 ‘risky’ nations:

Covid Is Making A Comeback Now That The Cold Is Approaching

After a summer of few Covid updates, other than the odd country removing entry requirements, a new Omicron offshoot called BA.5 is leaving a trail of disaster behind it. Particularly among overly conservative countries, that have grown wary of sharp Covid upticks, restrictions that had been dropped in the lead up to summer are now returning.

In South Korea, tourists are again subject to on-arrival testing and subsequent isolation until a negative result is issued, making the Asian hub the first major destination to respond this fiercely to the new wave. Additionally, the overly cautious Cyprus and Qatar have reinstated mask mandates they had scrapped only a few weeks prior.

Over in North America, the situation isn’t much better, as Canada has not only extended its strict border regime, but resumed random testing at airports. Like virtually everywhere else, cases are again rising in Canada, seriously threatening the tourism industry’s future. After all, the country is known to be super strict when it comes to pandemic management, and new waves could delay its full reopening indefinitely.

The United States has not completely abandoned its Covid protocols either. Despite lifting the much-criticized inbound testing regime for returning Americans, the country continues to require a valid vaccination certificate of foreigners, and viral trends remain markedly important for the CDC’s assessment of what makes a country safe, or unsafe for travel.

Earlier this week, the health body included a number of popular vacation hotspots, including Colombia and Paraguay, on its Level 3 listing. To be honest, we weren’t expecting any other countries to lose their ‘safe’ statuses this soon, but surprisingly, more demotions are due. Should the CDC continue moving at this speed, there won’t be many Level 1 or Level 2 countries left.

6 More Countries Are Downgraded To Level 3 Status

This time, it’s Central America‘s rising stars El Salvador and Honduras, Europe’s incredibly underrated Bosnia and Herzegovina and Poland, the paradise archipelago of Fiji, and the South Asian country of Bangladesh getting the downgrade. In all of these regions, cases have hit an average higher than 100 per 100,000 population, earning them a Level 3 stamp.

When traveling to the aforementioned six nations, Americans are advised to:
- Get vaccinated, even if their country of destination does not require a Covid certificate as proof of entry
- Ensure their vaccination cards are updated with all the required booster doses
- When suffering from low immunity, check with their private clinician whether their upcoming trip should be going ahead, taking into account the volatile scenario
- Wear face masks in all indoor spaces to prevent Covid infection and protect others, including inside planes and public transport
- When unvaccinated, avoid travel to Level 3 destinations due to the higher risk of developing a more serious course of Covid
They are now only one slot below Level 4, or the Special Circumstances list, reserved for nations where new dangerous variants have been identified and/or the epidemiological scenario is dire. As we have reported previously, cases tripled in Europe in the previous six weeks, proving Covid is as unpredictable as it once was, despite containment efforts.

Are CDC Travel Health Warnings Still Useful?

Despite the CDC’s ruling, most of the affected countries have little to no Covid regulations in place. The latter applies to Poland, where pandemic-related curbs ceased applying as soon as March. Although it is posting higher infection numbers compared to earlier weeks, it has not changed its lax approach yet (unlike fellow EU member Cyprus).

Demand is high, too. Judging by the current air traffic and the generalized chaos observed in a majority of airports, that could last up to another year, Covid is no longer a primary concern for travelers. However, as an official health entity, the CDC list should still be taken into consideration. In the very least, they are an indication of potential travel curbs to come.

How, exactly? Well, now that they are classed as ‘High Risk’ destinations and Covid is bound to spread much quicker in the colder fall and winter months, both Germany and Ireland are mulling over re-introducing face masks. In sum, these health warnings are non-binding, but they help us predict which countries might clamp down on tourism.

Other popular destinations in Level 3 include:
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Ireland
- Italy
- Norway
- Portugal
- Spain
- The United Kingdom
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July 29, 2022
CDC Ends Covid Program For Cruises, Now Cruise Lines Decide Their Own Rules

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States updated its website on Cruise Ship Guidance and announced the removal of the monitoring of the COVID-19 protocols for cruises in the country.

The agency stated: “As of July 18, 2022, CDC’s COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships is no longer in effect and this page will no longer be updated. New guidance for cruise ships to mitigate and manage COVID-19 transmission will be available in the coming days. For more information, please see the cruise travel.”

In March, the CDC had already removed travel advisories for cruises —meaning that vaccinated travelers were no longer advised to avoid cruises—, but the agency still monitored cruises and suggested a Covid-19 program.

Under the CDC covid-19 guidelines for cruises, cruise companies were advised to follow recommendations, and the agency supervised cruises and assigned vessels different colors depending on risks and covid cases detected onboard. Ships could also apply for the agency’s three voluntary programs: Not Highly Vaccinated, Highly Vaccinated, and Vaccination Standard of Excellence.

Now, the CDC will only provide guidance and suggestions, and cruises have the right to choose their own COVID-19 protocols.

What does it mean for travelers?

Cruise companies are no longer required to comply with the CDC’s programs, and have now the freedom to decide what the protocols on board will be. Travelers will now have to follow each cruise line’s rules and requirements and not the CDC’s advice.

Since the CDC’s update was recently shared —and surprised many in the industry—, cruise lines have not yet pronounced statements or changes related to this new announcement. Cruise companies will have to define what will be the best protocols for their own vessels, considering the routes, passengers, and even their own infrastructure and current sanitary measures.

The cruise industry is heading back to a “normal” experience, and probably travelers —vaccinated and non-vaccinated— will have fewer restrictions and fewer covid-testing requirements very soon.

Cruise Protocols Are Changing

Large cruise companies that made constant efforts to comply with the CDC’s programs might soon make changes and will probably be more flexible with travel requirements.

For example, the CDC’s requirements for cruises operating in US waters to be considered “Vaccination Standard of Excellence” or “Highly Vaccinated Ship” were exigent and precise, like “at least 95% of crew and 90% of passengers fully vaccinated or up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines”.

Meeting the suggested standards used to give cruise companies green categories and higher approval, but this is already changing.

Princess Cruises, the Carnival Corporation Brand, has already recently updated its protocol to expand options for unvaccinated travelers and ease restrictions despite the CDC’s program in the United States.

The company stated: “At Princess, we want to make your vacation as easy, hassle-free, and safe as possible. We respect that every guest has choices, and regardless of your vaccination status, we have amazing vacations for you to enjoy.”

Also, a few days ago, major cruise lines like Norweigan Cruises, Holland America, and P&O Cruises announced the removal of the pre-departure testing requirement.

Destinations Still Affect Restrictions

Travelers must remember that now COVID-19 restrictions will change in the United States and cruise companies will decide their own rules, but other countries still have strict demands and local measures that have to be respected.

Princess Cruises, in its recent update, also reminded travelers that the new flexible program does not apply to cruises stopping in Canada: “Please note that cruises that begin, end or visit Canada will require sailing guests ages 12 and above who are not Canadian citizens be fully vaccinated, unless they are granted a medical exemption.”

Vessels visiting the Caribbean must comply with local restrictions. Popular destinations like Antigua and Barbuda still required travelers to be vaccinated to disembark and provide a negative covid test, while Aruba, the Bahamas, and Barbados welcome unvaccinated travelers.

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July 21, 2022
Greece And British Virgin Islands Ease More Covid Rules For Travelers
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Two and a half years into the pandemic, numerous countries are dropping their excessively bureaucratic travel rules and/or easing mandates that have essentially barred tourists from visiting. The latest to have done so are Greece and the British Virgin Islands, two vacation hotspots that seem ready to move on from Covid… At last.

The travel industry may be in turmoil amid the wave of flight delays and cancellations, pushing the virus aside and giving us something else to worry about. Irrespective of these more pressing issues, Covid remains a secondary concern, especially when world leaders like the U.S., Canada, Brazil and France are yet to fully lift their own entry requirements.

Luckily, these two sunny destinations are no longer aligned with them:

Greece Ends Mandatory Quarantine For Infected Tourists

In April 12, Greece scrapped all of its Covid mandates and allowed tourism to resume. Prior to that date, the Hellenic Republic had stood firmly on the side of Europe’s pro-restriction group. Throughout most of the crisis, it barred unvaccinated foreigners from visiting and imposed a series of restrictive measures to keep Covid from being imported from abroad.

Surprisingly, in the months leading up to summer, Greek Health officials took a U-turn and decided the country would now join other Mediterranean competitors, including Croatia and Montenegro, in reopening the external EU border. Since then, foreigners have been allowed to enter Greece restriction-free, as it was prior to 2020:
- No vaccination is required
- No pre-departure or post-arrival tests
- No quarantine
- No health registration form
While this was already incredible news for the travel industry, Greece had retained some of its internal Covid curbs, indicating it was not declaring Covid an endemic disease – just yet. Now, even this is slowly changing, as authorities announce that mandatory isolation for infected tourists has been scrapped.

You read that right. In case you get infected traveling in Greece, you will not be required to undergo isolation at a government-listed hotel. All quarantine rooms have been converted back into tourist accommodations, and the five-day isolation period for Covid-positive travelers has ceased applying.

You were infected by Covid during your island-hopping adventure in Greece? No worries! Although you’re advised to isolate until the virus has been cleared, you’re free to carry on traveling as usual, as if you had caught the flu or any widely disseminated respiratory disease treated as endemic.

You will also not be forbidden from accessing any of the following:
- Public transport within Greece, including ferries, trains or planes*
- Museums and cultural sites
- Restaurants and indoor venues
*Valid for domestic routes only (e.g. if you’re infected and flying from Greece to a country that requires a negative test for entry, you will of course not be allowed to board the aircraft)

Despite not being subject to isolation, infected tourists must continue wearing FFFP2 or KN95 face masks if they choose not to quarantine. In other words, Greece’s recent lifting of face masks in all indoor settings does not apply to them, at least until the end of the voluntary quarantine period and/or subsequent negative test.

The British Virgin Islands Scrap All Entry Rules And Declares Covid Endemic

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) may not be as popular in the Caribbean as the likes of Jamaica or the Dominican Republic, but it is always a good sign when more nations, however small, let go of their draconian measures. If you’re visiting the BVI on a cruise in the weeks to come, you may be thrilled to learn that you’re no longer treated as a potential health threat for the archipelago.

On July 15, he Commonwealth collective of small islands lifted its only, yet much criticized entry requirement: that of mandatory pre-departure testing, applying to all irrespective to immunization and/or recovery status. Now that testing has been scrapped, there are officially no Covid mandates left to be observed when crossing the BVI border.

According to Petrona Davies, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, this relaxation is based upon the ‘reduced impact of Covid and the move from pandemic to endemic’. Based on this statement, we can safely assert that the British Virgin Islands is officially leaving Covid behind as it returns to a pre-pandemic state of normality.

Mrs. Davies confirmed that, after two years of living in a state of emergency and the vaccination campaign, the virus is having a ‘very minimal impact’ on the population. Cases may oscillate, but mortality rates have ‘significantly decreased’. She cites the positive health trend as the reason why they are reopening borders and allowing ‘pre-Covid’ tourism.

In sum:
- No vaccination requirements (including boosters)
- No pre-departure testing
- No post-arrival testing
- No quarantine
- No mandatory proof of Covid health insurance
- No masks indoors or outdoors
Don’t Forget To Get Insured Of The Relaxed Rules

These may be exciting times now that Covid is being treated more like a mild disease and less like a major health threat, but we should not let our guards down: international travel is still very much in a state of chaos, from long delays for passport renewal to the spate of cancellations affecting air passengers.

When flying abroad, make sure you get insured in order to minimize risks of being left stranded, or facing under a financial strain due to flight disruption and other emergency expenses. You can find out more about different insurance policies, including those fit for long-term travel, on this link.

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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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July 19, 2022
Belize Removes All Covid Entry Requirements
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And that’s one more down. After imposing some of the strictest entry rules in Central America, requiring either proof of vaccination or a negative test, and routinely issuing quarantine orders for those who tested positive on arrival, Belize is finally removing all of its Covid entry requirements, returning to a pre-pandemic state of normality.

According to the Belize Tourism Board, the lifting of the measures has immediate effect. This means that, from this moment forward, tourists will not be subject to Covid travel rules arriving in Belize. This is great news both for vacationers and long-term travelers country-hopping across the increasingly popular Central America.

Here is everything you need to know about Belize’s latest policy update:

No Vaccination, No Testing – Entry Is As Easy As It Was In 2019

Belize is one of trendiest places to be in the Americas right now. Home to a vast jungle where some of the best preserved Mayan-era monuments can be found, including the landmark Caracol ruins, and an immaculate Caribbean coastline with turquoise waters and sandy beaches, the small nation is ready to reclaiming its status as a tourism powerhouse.

More than two years into the pandemic, Kevin Bernard, Belize’s Minister of Health and Wellness, has decided it is time to move on to the ‘next level’, one where the public is responsible for assessing Covid risks on their own, including whether they should wear masks, be vaccinated, or practice social distancing.

As Bernard stated, ‘it is now everyone’s personal responsibility to decide whether they want to be vaccinated or not‘, and that includes foreigners landing in Belize, who up until this week had been expected to comply with vaccine and testing requirements, as well as purchasing mandatory health insurance.

Luckily, since July 12, all of these prerequisites stopped applying.

Which Rules Have Been Scrapped And Which Ones Were Extended?

Bernard remarks that, now that ‘weaker variants’ of Covid are circulating and a majority of countries are jumping on the reopening trend, ‘the time has come’ for Belize to join them in taking the ‘pressure’ off of its health system, as well as easing rules at the border. In sum, none of the following are needed for travel to Belize:
- No vaccination or booster certificates
- No pre-departure testing, including for the unvaccinated
- No post-arrival testing
- No post-arrival quarantine, irrespective of immunization status
- No Covid health insurance
Flying from any departure points in North America into Belize City, or crossing any of the land borders with neighboring Mexico is as easy as it had once been, making this exciting country a strong contender for your next trip abroad. Direct flights are available from every major U.S. city, including Chicago, L.A., Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami and Orlando.

Despite the relaxation of health-related rules, the country’s authorities have reiterated that international visitors must continue booking their stays at a ‘Gold Standard’ hotel – namely one of the governments’ approved accommodation providers. The full list is available on the Belize Tourism Board’s official website.

Why You Should Still Get Insured Ahead Of Traveling To Belize

Even though insurance has ceased being an official requirement, it is our duty to remind you it remains a necessity. You wouldn’t think of traveling to another country without sufficient funds to cover all your expenses, the right amount of clothes or any of your travel essentials, so why are so many people treating insurance like it’s a waste of money?

In case you haven’t heard yet, air travel is in absolute turmoil right now, flight delays and cancellations having become the new normal. This includes airports in the Americas. Needless to say, purchasing insurance ahead of flying is a must, unless being stranded abroad or having travel plans ruined is not a big concern for you.

Even though they removed insurance as a precondition for travel, Belizean officials are aware insurance is still markedly important in the current volatile scenario. In fact, they are encouraging all travelers to get insured as an ‘extra level of protection’. You can find more about travel insurance fit for your trip to Belize here.

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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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July 17, 2022
What To Do If You Get COVID While Traveling In Europe
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Now that COVID-19 travel restrictions have been eased and only a few countries in Europe still have restrictions, travelers from all over the world are eager to explore the old continent and enjoy a wonderful summer vacation.

However, they might not be able to avoid getting COVID-19, especially while visiting landmarks and tourist destinations. According to recent data, popular destinations have been recording significant rises in cases, and the Omicron variant BA.5 has been spreading quickly.

But what can travelers do if they get COVID while traveling? Well, it depends on the country they are visiting. These are the current rules in the most popular countries:

Italy: Strict Quarantine Rules

Even though there are no entry restrictions, Italy still has a few rules regarding COVID. Here’s what travelers should know:
- FFP2 masks are still mandatory in public transportation, including buses, planes, and trains. In hospitals and health centers masks are also required.
- If you have COVID-related symptoms or had contact with someone with the virus, local authorities recommend to self-isolate and contact a doctor. Travelers can contact the national COVID hotline (1500) or regional hotlines.
- The government assists travelers with COVID-19 tests.
- According to the US Embassy in Italy, antigen tests cost around $20 and PCR tests around $70.
- Travelers who test positive will have to self-isolate, at the travelers’ own expense, for 7 to 21 days. Only vaccinated travelers —or those who recovered from COVID in the last 120 days— can quarantine for 7 days, non vaccinated travelers must quarantine for at least 10 days.
- In order to leave self-isolation, travelers must have had over 3 days without symptoms and test negative. Only after 21 days testing positive travelers can leave quarantine.
UK: No restrictions

The UK has also removed entry requirements, but this is what travelers must bear in mind:
- Travelers with symptoms or COVID-19 do not have to self-isolate.
- Local authorities recommend avoiding contact with people for 5 days.
- Travelers under 18 should stay at their accommodation for three days.
- Covid-19 tests aren’t free, and prices can vary a lot: from $47 to $594 depending on the type of test, location, and time delivering results.
France: Self-Isolation Required

France still requires travelers to be vaccinated or show a recent negative test result and fill in a health form. These are the main considerations for travelers:
- Masks are not mandatory but highly recommended in crowded places and in public transportation.
- Travelers are encouraged to download the local COVID-related app called “TousAntiCovid”.
- Vaccinated travelers who test positive for COVID-19, must self-isolate for 7 days from the first day of symptoms or from the day they got the positive result. If travelers feel well on day 5 and don’t have symptoms they can leave quarantine sooner with a negative test result.
- Non-vaccinated travelers who test positive must quarantine for 10 days. If they feel better on day 7 and obtain a negative COVID-19 test result, they can stop self-isolating.
Spain: Just A Few Restrictions

Spain requires international travelers —outside the EU— to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result. These are the current rules for travelers who get COVID:
- Those who are asymptomatic or don’t feel very sick are not required to quarantine. Travelers should self-isolate if they don’t feel well.
- Those who tested positive for COVID-19 are recommended to wear a face mask for 10 days in crowded places, public transportations, and public indoor spaces, and practice social distancing.
Portugal: Self-Isolation Required

Travelers don’t have entry restrictions, but, if they get COVID there are a few considerations:
- Travelers who test positive must self-isolate for 7 days at their own expense.
- In Madeira, the Azores, and Porto Santo self-isolation is required only for 5 days.
- Travelers can get assistance from local hotlines or call 112 in case of an emergency.
- Masks are mandatory on public transportation, taxis, hospitals and pharmacies.
Germany: Self-Isolation Required

There are no entry restrictions for travelers, but here’s what they should know:
- Facemasks are mandatory in public transportation and health centers.
- Travelers with COVID-19 symptoms should call the hotline 116 117 or a doctor.
- Those who test positive must self-isolate for at least five days. After getting a negative result, travelers can stop quarantining.
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July 15, 2022
Australia Removes All Covid Related Entry Requirements

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Travelers with eyes on visiting Australia rejoice, as the country has just removed all of its strict Covid-19 related entry requirements. The Land Down Under has made headlines throughout the pandemic for its strict, no-nonsense approach to dealing with the spread of the virus. From all but closing its borders to international travelers to implementing city wide lockdowns over a handful of cases, the country took extreme measures with the aim of keeping its people safe – but it looks like, at long last, its days of arbitrary entry restrictions have finally come to an end.

For the first time in years, it means that all visa-holding travelers will now be able to visit Australia and sample all the sunny, culture-filled country has to offer – and it comes just in time for summer. Here’s a look at the changes Australia has made to its Covid-19 related entry restrictions, including which entry requirements are on their way out, which other restrictions travelers should be aware of plus a look at the current Covid-19 situation in the country.

Australia Removes Entry Barriers – What Travelers Should Know

Up until recently, Australia boasted some of the strictest entry requirements in the world. On February 21st – when other countries were beginning to drop their entry requirements completely – Australia only made it possible for fully vaccinated travelers to enter, making entry to the country impossible for millions of unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated travelers. However, as of Wednesday, these strict entry requirements are set to be a thing of the past.

On Sunday Australia’s home affairs minister, Clare O’Neil, announced that the country would be removing all of its Covid-19 related entry requirements, making visiting the country not only much easier, but much more of an attractive proposition for millions of potential arrivals. In doing so, Australia has joined the likes of popular destinations such as Portugal, Thailand and several other countries who have also made changes to their entry requirements over the past few days.

That means that from Wednesday July 6th, travelers will no longer need to show proof of vaccination in order to be able to enter the country, allowing all visa-holding or visa exempt travelers to be able to enter for the first time since the pandemic took hold. With the country already having removed the requirement to take a Covid-19 test, it makes entry into the country just as easy as it was prior to the pandemic.

That’s not the only entry requirements change that Australia is set to make. Also from Wednesday, the country will be removing the requirement for inbound travelers to complete the Digital Passenger Declaration, or DPD. The DPD has long since come under fire ever since it was rolled out for being not very user friendly. However, the Minister Clare O’Neill stated that the system will likely make a comeback in the future to replace the paper-based incoming passenger card.

Travelers should be aware that state specific rules also apply in Australia and could be subject to change. Whilst there are no longer any rules in place regarding cafes, bars and restaurants, face masks must be worn when on public transport in each of Australia’s states, apart from the Northern Territory and Tasmania. Travelers will also have to wear masks when flying on both international flights to Australia and domestic flights within the country. More information on specific requirements for each state can be found here.

The number of Covid-19 cases in Australia has remained high yet steady for several weeks, with the country reporting an average of just below 33,000 positive cases of the virus per day. According to the US Travel Advisory system, Australia is a Level 1 country, meaning it is amongst the safest destinations to visit in the world.

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July 5, 2022
CDC Increases Covid Health Risk To High For One Of The Most Popular Destinations For Americans
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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention bumped up the Dominican Republic to its Level 3: High Level of Covid risk category on Monday.

The Dominican Republic previously sat at a Level 2: Moderate risk for Covid since May, and the popular vacation destination is now officially listed at Level 3 with a number of other nations around the world. We’ve got all the details for travelers below.

CDC Rating System Overhaul: Information For International Travelers

The CDC restructured its Covid rating system this past April, which is one that was in place since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. In the update, the Level 4: Very High risk category was changed to Do Not Travel: Special Circumstances.

The switch bumped a lot of European nations from the Level 4 to Level 3 category, many of which still remain on the list.

At this time, there aren’t any countries in the new Level 4 category, but you can check for updates on the CDC’s website. To review, Level 2 means a “moderate” amount of risk and a Level 1 ranking is “low” risk when it comes to Covid.

Dominican Republic Is Now ‘High’ Risk – What Does This Mean For Travelers?

This new CDC Covid health-risk ranking means that all nations listed as Level 3 are currently at the highest degree of risk for the virus.

To get a Level 3 ranking, it means that there are more than 100 reported cases of Covid-19 out of 100,000 residents over a consecutive 28-day period. On top of the Dominican Republic, the Middle Eastern nation of Kuwait was added to the CDC’s Level 3 list this week.

While this means that travel is still permitted to the Dominican Republic, the CDC does offer some guidelines for tourists planning to visit the Caribbean nation now that Covid cases are rising throughout the region:
- It’s recommended that all travelers be up to date with their vaccinations against the virus and to avoid travel if not fully vaccinated.
- Because all travelers may still be at risk of contracting and spreading the virus even if they have received their vaccinations, it’s best to remain vigilant when visiting the Dominican Republic.
- Carry a well-fitting face mask with you when you leave your hotel room and wear it in all public indoor spaces throughout your trip.
- Follow all guidelines when traveling to and throughout airports (in the US and at your travel destination) during your trip.
- The CDC also recommends taking a Covid viral test three days prior to departure or as close to your departure time as possible.
High-Risk Countries For Covid, According To The CDC

Here’s a review of some of the other popular travel destinations currently listed at Level 3 as of June 27th, 2022:
- Anguilla
- Aruba
- The Bahamas
- Barbados
- Belize
- Canada
- Costa Rica
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Mexico
- The Netherlands
- Portugal
- Spain
- Turks and Caicos
- The UK
Dominican Republic Welcomed ‘Record-Breaking’ Amount Of Tourists In Spring 2022

Travel in the Dominican Republic has skyrocketed in 2022 as Covid health-related restrictions have been dropping around the world. The hype was so big that the nation actually broke its record for the highest number of international arrivals of all-time in April of 2022.

The Caribbean country welcomed a total of 626,000 travelers in April, which was the first time it received more than 600,000 international arrivals in a full calendar month. Travelers arrived via air and by cruise ship, with over 129,000 cruise ship passengers recorded in the Dominican Republic that month. The highest number of international arrivals to DR were US Americans as well as Canadian tourists.

Safety And Travel In The Dominican Republic

The popular Caribbean destination dropped its pre-departure testing and quarantine requirements for international travelers in October of 2020 and the country slowly began welcoming tourists back.

Throughout much of the pandemic, some restrictions were in place for travelers and locals alike on the ground, such as mandatory mask-wearing in public spaces as well as a nationwide evening curfew.

Entry Requirements For The Dominican Republic: An Overview

In 2021 and into 2022, some entry restrictions remained for unvaccinated travelers to the Dominican Republic, which included a Covid breathalizer test upon arrival at the airport. All arrivals that tested positive were subject to quarantine.

On top of randomized testing upon arrival, pre-departure tests were put in place for some international tourists during the Omicron wave last year but they’ve since been removed. And in April 2022, the Dominican Republic officially removed all of its Covid-related entry requirements for travelers.

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June 29, 2022
CDC Lowers Covid Health Risk For 6 More Countries
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With Covid finally on course to become an endemic disease, and no longer a particularly worrying threat to public health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is making some important updates to its travel advisories. Now, six more countries have had their health risk levels downgraded, enjoying a new Level 2 status.

Throughout the pandemic, the CDC has classified different destinations based on their epidemiology. Level 1 means the circulation of Covid is low, while on Levels 2 and 3 it is deemed ‘moderate’ and ‘high’, respectively. Level 4 is usually reserved for ‘special circumstances’ when the virus is rampant, or a new variant of concern has been identified.

The six new countries that are now in the CDC’s good graces had been placed on the ‘high risk’ list for months – even after cases subsided and pandemic restrictions were dropped. As of June 21, they are no longer perceived as risky destinations:

Bolivia

An unsung Latin American country, Bolivia had been stuck in a Category 3 limbo up until yesterday, June 21, when the latest CDC guidance was published. Following the update, it was moved down to the ‘Moderate Risk’ grouping, meaning that although Covid transmission is still possible within the country, the viral spread remains within acceptable levels.

Despite being a safer destination than it once was, at least regarding Covid, Bolivia is not yet fully open for travel. Local authorities may have allowed international flights to resume as early as 2020, but they still expect air passengers to satisfy certain health requirements ahead of traveling to Bolivia for tourism.

Entry Requirements For Bolivia In 2022
- When fully vaccinated, visitors must present a printed or digital copy of their certificate
- If they are yet to be immunized, undergoing a PCR in under 72 hours, or a Rapid Antigen test 48 hours before boarding
- All arrivals must register their local address online prior to flying
Ethiopia

Lower-than-average vaccination coverage aside, Africa as a whole seems to be moving past the critical stage of the pandemic, and Ethiopia is a clear example of that. Once one of the hardest hit in the continent, the nation has now been granted a Level 2 placing, outpacing other major tourist spots like South Africa and Seychelles.

Visiting Ethiopia may come with a set of restrictions, including mandatory testing for the unvaccinated, but at least it is far from being overwhelmed by Covid. According to latest data shared by Reuters, this Eastern African jewel is currently recording 656 new infections on average per day, or only 16% of the highest case tally reported on December 31.

Entry Requirements For Ethiopia In 2022
- Travelers who are not vaccinated must present a negative Covid test for entry, either a PCR (72 hours preceding travel) or a Rapid Antigen (24 hours)
- Alternatively, recovery certificates issued within the last 3 months are also considered valid proof of entry
Kenya

An up-and-coming tourist destination, Kenya is considered by many the ultimate Africa trip: perfect for slow-paced travel and safari adventures, it is home to some of the continent’s most emblematic wildlife, and arguably its most welcoming people(s). On top of that, traveling to Kenya does not involve particularly high Covid infection risks, as assessed by the CDC.

A Level 2 nation, Kenya is welcoming all vaccinated travelers, including American, without testing, quarantine, or any other health-related requirements. As long as incoming passengers can produce a vaccination certificate at the border, they are free to explore the region’s natural immediately after leaving the airport.

Entry Requirements For Kenya In 2022
- A vaccination certificate is required
- Vaccination certificates must be uploaded to the Global Haven website
- Unless exempt, unvaccinated tourists are not allowed to enter; those who qualify for an exemption must present a negative PCR test result obtained up to 72 hours in advance
Morocco

North of the Sahara Desert, Morocco is joining both Ethiopia and Kenya as one of very few nations in Africa where Covid risks are understood to be ‘moderate’. According to the CDC, visitors are simply advised to make sure they are up to date with their vaccination schedule when visiting Morocco – indeed, it remains an official requirement for entry.

Morocco is one of the most touristy nations in the North of Africa, with cities like Marrakech, Fez, Rabat and Tangier dating back thousands of years, and a spotless Mediterranean coastline that rivals those of neighboring African and European countries. Luckily, flights into the country have been authorized again since February 2022.

Entry Requirements For Morocco In 2022
- Passengers must present a three-dose vaccination certificate, or then a two-dose vaccination certificate less than four months old
- When unable to satisfy the above requirement, they may present a negative PCR test result (72 hours before boarding)
- Recovery certificates will not be accepted
- All travelers must fill out a Passenger Locator Form
Romania

Over in Eastern Europe, Romania’s infection rates have decreased fast enough for it to attain a Level 2 classification this week. A mystical land dotted with castles, medieval citadels, remnants of bygone empires and even a coastline – Black Sea summer, anyone? – the country’s tourism sector will surely benefit from the CDC revision over summer.

Unlike every other destination mentioned so far on this list, Romania is open with no restrictions whatsoever: both the vaccinated, and unvaccinated, are allowed to come and go as it pleases them, since Romanian border authorities ceased checking Covid documentation back in March.

Entry Requirements For Romania In 2022

There are no Covid entry requirements applying to those visiting Romania in 2022

Sweden

Last but not least, Sweden is now the first in Scandinavia to be moved back to the Level 2 bracket. Out of all the new Level 2 entries, it has to be the safest nation overall, reporting a nearly negligible 226 new infections per day – only 1% of the January 27 peak. Fortunately for travelers, the CDC has acknowledged Sweden’s success in managing the health crisis (at last).

More importantly, Covid levels are now so low in the country that Sweden recently scrapped all entry requirements, reinstating travel guidelines exactly as they were back in 2019. Since late March, Americans visiting Sweden have no longer been subject to Europe’s infamously strict Covid regulations, vaccine requirements, testing, or quarantine.

Entry Requirements For Sweden In 2022

There are no Covid entry requirements applying to those visiting Sweden in 2022

Other CDC guidance, including countries that remain on the Level 3 risk group, can be found here.

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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 23, 2022