Tag: Europe

Why Trips To Europe May Not Go As Planned This Fall
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 6 mins ago

If there is one phrase that has consistently made headlines for travel this summer, it’s travel chaos. Never-ending lines for security, consistent delays and cancellations, and piles of lost luggage have become a grim reality for travelers this summer, particularly in Europe. In fact, Europe was considered the worst place to travel this summer due to how chaotic things have been at airports across the region. Travelers hoping to return to normalcy before an upcoming trip to Europe this fall may be in for some disappointment.

Why Are Things So Bad in Europe?

Earlier this year, many European countries removed their covid restrictions for international travelers. As a result, the demand for travel to Europe exploded. Travelers were more eager than ever for a vacation after spending the last two years unable to travel. Unfortunately, staffing did not increase at the same rate as demand, and the world is now experiencing the travel chaos that has become the new normal.

Staffing is low across the board, with a shortage of pilots, baggage handlers, air traffic controllers, flight attendants, and security personnel. Some countries, like the United Kingdom, have changed their laws regarding the recruitment of aviation staff. Still, many efforts to curb the chaos are too little too late. Adding fuel to the fire, many remaining staff are unsatisfied, overworked, and underpaid. As a result, strikes have plagued European airports and airlines, furthering the problem. The problems are here to stay for the time being, and fall trips to Europe are no exception.

Will Things Be Better This Fall?

In a recent interview with United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby, the executive said that the aviation sector would not return to normal operations until the summer of 2023. According to Kirby, the main issue holding back the return to normalcy is staffing. United has stated they have the staff to be a larger airline than their current capacity shows. Still, they will continue to scale back operations until the rest of the aviation industry can support them. While United waits for the rest of the industry to catch up, here are some other actions in Europe that may contribute to a rocky fall season.

Flight Caps

Several major European airports have attempted to combat this summer’s travel chaos by imposing restrictions on how many flights are allowed in or out of the airport per day. Airports currently imposing flight caps include London Heathrow, Frankfurt Airport, Amsterdam’s Schiphol, and London Gatwick. Each airport has its own limits and dates set for their respective caps as follows:
- London Heathrow – Daily passenger cap of 100,000. The current cap lasts until at least the end of October.
- London Gatwick – Dropped operational capacity from 900 to 825 and 850 for July and August, respectively. The current cap lasts through August, and future caps have yet to be announced.
- Frankfurt Airport – Taking a different approach, Frankfurt Airport has reduced its hourly flights from 96 to 88. The cap is in place until further notice.
- Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport – Amsterdam has been the European capital for air travel chaos. It has an August cap set at 72,500 travelers per day. The airport recently announced they would be extending the cap with 67,500 travelers per day allowed in September and 69,500 per day in October. In an unrelated cap, the airport intends to combat climate change by instituting a permanent cap from 2023.
Strikes

As if staffing shortages weren’t enough, strikes have also plagued European airports, airlines, and train services this summer. Ryanair passengers in Spain this fall could see their trips disrupted by planned strikes by union members who work for the airline. According to its members, the union intends to strike Monday-Thursday every week until January 7^th.

Similarly, passengers flying with EasyJet in Spain may see disruption during planned strikes throughout August and potentially beyond. Those traveling to London this August will be affected by strikes planned by London Underground and Overground staff. If demands remain unmet for any of the above strikes, they will likely continue into the fall and beyond.

Covid Restrictions In Europe

Currently, only a few countries in Europe remain with Covid restrictions. Most countries have scrapped testing requirements and mask-wearing. However, Germany recently announced a plan to combat an expected increase in Covid cases for the fall, which includes reinstating mask mandates in the event of a sharp rise in cases. Other countries may have similar plans, but travelers can only speculate at this point. As fall progresses, travelers may face travel disruption from the reintroduction of Covid restrictions.

Bottom Line

The summer has undoubtedly been one of the most chaotic to date for travelers across the world. Those hoping for a reprieve during fall are likely to be disappointed, and travel chaos is expected to continue. Knowing which airports are the best for avoiding delays, being aware of your passenger rights, and staying up to date on the potential reintroduction of restrictions are all steps travelers should take this fall to ensure a smooth trip.

↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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
[ad_2]

Source link
August 10, 2022
Europe Delays Introduction Of Tourist Fee For Another Year

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 39 mins ago

Here we go again.

More than six years since it unveiled its plan to launch a U.S.-style Travel Authorization scheme, which many now deem a ‘tourist fee’, Europe has decided to push back the date – once again – on top of multiple previous postponements dating back to 2020. Instead of early 2023, the so-called ETIAS will now be operational only from November 2023.

For more than half a decade, the European Union has mulled over the introduction of the measure, set to tighten rules for travel into the bloc. Currently, Americans, Canadians and many other non-EU citizens only need valid passports visiting the continent. Once the ETIAS are launched, they will need to apply for an additional online permit in advance.

Why, then, has the roll-out been so slow? More importantly, will the ETIAS ever be launched at all?

How Does The Travel Authorization Work?

While it was set to debut as early as January 2023, the ETIAS launch date has now been moved to November. In fact, it won’t be an official requirement in 2023 at all: a six-month grace period will be observed, meaning Americans won’t need to formally apply for a Travel Authorization possibly until May 2024.

According to ETIAS Visa, a platform specialized in Europe and ETIAS News, the European Commission has chosen November as the definitive date for the roll-out, though it will be gradual. As noted above, applying for an ETIAS will not be mandatory until after six months have elapsed from the implementation date.

Application will possibly involve filling out an online form, with details such as full name, nationality, age, as well as truthfully answering questions pertaining to character, immigration, and criminal records. It may sound burdensome, but it is an incredibly straightforward process, usually taking a few minutes to complete.

Of course, travelers who are curious to find out how the new EU ‘e-permit’ works are more than welcome to request their first ETIAS in November. As ETIAS Visa reports, the Travel Authorization will remain active for 3 years from issuance, or it may be rendered invalid sooner if the permit holder’s passport expires before that. Of course, it will not be free.

Much like the U.S., which only recently doubled the fee for its own Travel Authorization, Europe expects Americans and other foreigners to pay in order to be granted a leave to enter. At this moment, a single ETIAS will cost $8, much cheaper than other e-permits required by America, Canada, Australia or New Zealand.

How Does The ETIAS Change Europe Travel?

Europe is known to be have a tough stance on immigration. Even though they already carefully monitor every movement into and out of the Schengen Area, their famous border-free zone, the continent’s leaders are stepping up security efforts now that international travel has resumed. This includes the controversial ETIAS.

First of all, how does Schengen even work? In summary, it is an agreement signed by 26 European countries allowing people to move freely without any identity checks. Essentially, driving from Spain to France is as bureaucratic as crossing the California-Nevada border. Normally, there are no identity checks whatsoever, as all Schengen countries share a continuous customs territory.

Once they have cleared security at their initial point of entry, Americans can come and go as they wish within the Schengen Area. However, as per EU rules, they can remain in Schengen for up to 90 days only, out of every 180-rolling period. In other words, when staying for a full three months in Schengen, U.S. citizens must then leave the zone for a further three until they can be allowed back in.

This gives the clock time to reset, and a brand new 3-month period to start. Countries belonging to the Schengen Area include the popular tourist hotspots of Italy, Spain, Portugal, Germany and The Netherlands, and will soon feature Europe’s most sought-after destination: yes, Croatia is joining the group soon.

More importantly, these rules will not change once the ETIAS starts being enforced. Americans will still only be allowed to visit Europe within the time-frame mentioned above, regardless of the three-year validity of their travel permit. You can learn more about the Schengen Area, and the freedoms it promotes, visiting the official website.

Will The ETIAS Really Be Launched In November 2023?

Well, that is a tricky question. The ETIAS is a multi-million project whose impacts will be felt across the entire EU and EU-associated countries, such as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and others. To put it simply, it is not as simple as merely setting up a random web-page to accommodate the service: it is a mechanism that will change Europe travel forever.

Preparations have been underway for years, and the fact that countless delays have occurred are a testament to how complex, and challenging, reforming an immigration system is, especially in a collective as unique as the EU, where major decisions must have unanimous approval of all members.

Taking this into account, the ETIAS is in fact moving pretty quickly. Perhaps not as fast as Brussels would have hoped, after two years of stagnation due to Covid and other intra-EU disagreements, but the EU does look determined to deliver on this project sooner rather than later. Whether it’s 2023 or 2024, the ETIAS is being brought in.

That said, there may be some operational issues that could be slowing down the process more than the Commission would have liked. One of them may be, surprise, Brexit, a term referring to the UK’s withdrawal from the bloc which was finalized in 2020 after a painful five-year divorce. Prior to Brexit, Brits were able to move freely across the EU.

Now, their passports must be checked thoroughly at every entry point, like Americans’ and any non-European citizens. This has proven a problem, considering that UK-EU traffic is heavy, particularly via land: in recent weeks, the UK’s Dover Port, a gateway to France, has declared a ‘critical incident‘ due to the extremely long wait times travelers are facing.

Brits can’t just scan their way into the EU anymore: border officials must ensure they comply with the bloc’s rules, such as not having been present in the Schengen Area for longer than 90 days in the last 180 days, checking they have enough funds to support themselves during their stay, having a return ticket etc – and this has created a massive backlog.

Is The EU Prepared For The Extra Documentation Check?

Now that tourism has resumed, the impact of Brexit is finally being felt at the EU’s external borders with the UK, with the French Transport Minister blaming Brexit directly for the travel chaos. You can see what we are getting at: Europe is probably not prepared for further border checks right now, including ETIAS. More worryingly, the UK impasse is only one example.

Several other non-EU citizens that travel to Europe frequently – Serbians, Montenegrins, Bosnians, Albanians – will be subject to the ETIAS system, not to mention those coming from across the pond. From our understanding, Europe can’t take any chances in aggravating the current travel disruption by adding new border requirements when airports are already crumbling under pressure.

After all, this crisis could last another year, exactly the amount of time the ETIAS launch has been delayed for. This is, of course, our view on the topic. The EU has not issued a formal statement detailing why the launch was delayed. At the same time, it is clearly visible the continent is struggling with infrastructure and staffing issues due to a pent-up travel demand, besides dealing with other major concerns.

Needless to say, Europe already has a lot in their plate right now, and we can understand why something as monumental as a Travel Authorization scheme is not an immediate priority. As things stand, the ETIAS will start receiving applications in November 2023, and all eligible, non-visa requiring tourists will be encouraged to obtain one.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Here’s How You Can Travel 33 Countries In Europe By Train For Less Than $200

United Airlines Adding New Flights To 3 European Capitals

Amsterdam Is The European Capital Of Air Travel Chaos

These Are The Last 3 European Countries With Entry Requirements

↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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

[ad_2]

Source link

August 5, 2022
Here’s How You Can Travel 33 Countries In Europe By Train For Less Than $200
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 28 mins ago

Are you going on an Euro backpacking trip anytime soon?

You may want to reconsider whatever itinerary you have planned, as we have just come across an irresistible deal that will make your travels much simpler. Instead of multiple, ultra-expensive flights that will likely get delayed in the end, how about booking a single train ticket enabling you to travel across 33 countries for a whole month, or longer, for less than $200?

The Eurail Pass is a Europe-wide initiative aimed at boosting train ridership at a time when carbon emissions are rising, especially after the resumption of international flights, and strengthening connectivity within the continent. Essentially, pass holders are allowed to hop on and off trains as many times as they wish, within a pre-determined period of time, as per existing fare rules.

Pretty exciting, right? Here’s everything you need to know about the increasingly popular ‘Europe train pass’:

Travel All Of Europe With A Single Ticket

Known as the Eurail Pass, this ticket grants unrestricted travel to 33 countries within the European region, including both European Union (EU) and non-EU member states, such as Turkey and Serbia. In sum, it grants its holders the right to hop on any train of their liking for a number of days within a specific timeframe (e.g. 7 days within 1 month).

Effectively, it is a pretty good deal for backpackers visiting Europe for longer, as it allows them to travel the continent with a single pass, as opposed to booking separate tickets for each section of their trip. There’s more: if you’re a young traveler, aged 12 to 27, you get a 25% discount off the fare, regardless of the longevity of the pass.

This means you may be eligible for a minimum of 4 days of unlimited travel within Europe for only $188.

Train Travel Is The Way Forward

If there is one trend picking up momentum now that the aviation industry has descended into chaos is long-distance train travel. Originally a transport modality that only a niche of travelers used, either for environmental concerns or for the scenic views, trains are getting more and more affordable now that flight prices have gone through the roof.

The crisis is hitting some countries harder than others, particularly in Europe, where a number of airports have been forced to cap the number of daily flights due to the overwhelming demand, mostly to no avail. Luckily, unlike the Americas, Europe has a well-developed rail system offering links between multiple cross-border destinations.

Surpirisngly, many Americans are not aware the Eurail Pass exists, but one of the best ways to travel Europe is booking this multi-journey ticket valid between one to three months, or the exact amount of time tourists are normally allowed to stay in Europe. Needless to say, train travel is the way forward.

What Are The Eurail Fares And Validity?

Eurail Pass Fares

Unlimited Travel Days Within 1 To 2 Months

12-27 years
- 4 unlimited travel days within 1 month – $188 (2nd class) / $250 (1st class)
- 5 unlimited travel days within 1 month – $215 (2nd class) / $287 (1st class)
- 7 unlimited travel days within 1 month – $255 (2nd class) / $341 (1st class)
- 10 unlimited travel days within 2 months – $306 (2nd class) / $408 (1st class)
- 15 unlimited travel days within 2 months – $376 (2nd class) / $502 (1st class)
28-59 years
- 4 unlimited travel days within 1 month – $250 (2nd class) / $334 (1st class)
- 5 unlimited travel days within 1 month – $287 (2nd class) / $383 (1st class)
- 7 unlimited travel days within 1 month – $341 (2nd class) / $454 (1st class)
- 10 unlimited travel days within 2 months – $408 (2nd class) / $544 (1st class)
- 15 unlimited travel days within 2 months – $502 (2nd class) / $669 (1st class)
60+ years
- 4 unlimited travel days within 1 month – $225 (2nd class) / $300 (1st class)
- 5 unlimited travel days within 1 month – $258 (2nd class) / $344 (1st class)
- 7 unlimited travel days within 1 month – $307 (2nd class) / $408 (1st class)
- 10 unlimited travel days within 2 months – $367 (2nd class) / $490 (1st class)
- 15 unlimited travel days within 2 months – $452 (2nd class) / $602 (1st class)
Continuous Travel

12-27 years
- 15 consecutive days of unlimited travel – $338 (2nd class) / $451 (1st class)
- 22 consecutive days of unlimited travel – $396 (2nd class) / $527 (1st class)
28-59 years
- 15 consecutive days of unlimited travel – $451 (2nd class) / $601 (1st class)
- 22 consecutive days of unlimited travel – $527 (2nd class) / $702 (1st class)
60+ years
- 15 consecutive days of unlimited travel – $406 (2nd class) / $540 (1st class)
- 22 consecutive days of unlimited travel – $474 (2nd class) / $632 (1st class)
Monthly Tickets

12-27 years
- 1 month of unlimited travel – $503 (2nd class) / $682 (1st class)
- 2 months of unlimited travel – $558 (2nd class) / $744 (1st class)
- 3 months of unlimited travel – $689 (2nd class) / $918 (1st class)
28-59 years
- 1 month of unlimited travel – $682 (2nd class) / $909 (1st class)
- 2 months of unlimited travel – $744 (2nd class) / $993 (1st class)
- 3 months of unlimited travel – $918 (2nd class) / $1224 (1st class)
60+ years
- 1 month of unlimited travel – $614 (2nd class) / $819 (1st class)
- 2 months of unlimited travel – $670 (2nd class) / $894 (1st class)
- 3 months of unlimited travel – $827 (2nd class) / $1102 (1st class)
Image by SJ via www.sj.se/en

If you are traveling within a single European country, there is a separate Eurail One Country Pass that can be purchased. Unlike the standard Eurail Pass, prices vary among countries. In Italy, for instance, they start at $107 for 3 days of unlimited travel within 1 month, though it can be as expensive as $326 for a 5-day pass.

What Countries Are Included In The Pass?

A total of 33 European countries participate in the Eurail scheme. Those are:

Map of European countries where Eurail Passes are valid, highlighted in green. Image by Eurail via the Eurail official website.
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece (including islands)
- Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales)
- Hungary
- Italy
- Ireland
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg*
- The Netherlands*
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain*
- Sweden
- Turkey
*Only these countries still have Covid entry requirements in place. If you’re flying into Europe via Luxembourg, The Netherlands or Spain, make sure you carry valid health documentation. This may include a mandatory vaccination certificate and/or negative test issued prior to departure.

Eurail passes are also valid for bus and ferry journeys in select locations, such as Spain, where AML, Balearia and Grimaldi Ferry Lines are included. In Sweden, some of the participating ferry operators are Finnlines, Fjord Line, Stena Line and Viking Line, among others. Tourists can find the complete list of participating transport operators on this link.

How Do I Buy And Use An Eurail Pass?

In order to be eligible to buy an Eurail Pass, you must fulfill two simple requirements:

*This does not mean Europeans are barred from traveling by train without limits – they are simply required to apply for the Interrail Pass instead, which works just like the Eurail.

Tickets can be purchased via the official website, where tourists will be expected to create an account, providing details such as age, nationality and country of residence (for eligibility purposes). They will also be required to select the exact duration of their pass. The process is quite straightforward and the product is delivered directly to their Eurail account.

The pass can also be sent by post, in paper form, to their home in the U.S., Canada, or other locations ahead of their flight to Europe. Personally, we would recommend sticking to the online ticket as it is delivered within seconds of buying, and you won’t risk your mail getting lost, or damaging the actual ticket during your travels.

Once they have the Eurail Pass in hands, Americans are free to explore the whole of Europe by train, North to South, East to West and Central, according to their pre-selected number of travel days. It is worth noting it may be necessary to make a free seat reservation on some routes in advance, or at the station prior to departure.

This applies mostly to high-speed and night trains, where seating availability may be limited. Using the pass is super easy as well: if you’re carrying a paper ticket, you’ll need to have an official ‘activate’ it before your first trip, preferably at larger train stations such as Paris Gare du Nord, London’s King Cross, or Amsterdam Centraal. Activation includes getting a stamp indicating the ‘start and end day’ of the pass.

Alternatively, e-pass holders can simply activate it themselves after ordering from the official website. Lastly, it is of utmost importance that all Eurail customers manually fill in their travel diary, which is usually attached to their paper ticket or their online booking, detailing their departure station, departure time and destination for each trip.

In case they don’t keep a record of their traveling in the Eurail diary, including online, their pass will not be considered ‘valid’ by staff, and fines may incur. For more information on how to use the pass and fill in the correct travel information, travelers are advised to contact Eurail or qualified staff at stations. Once the Pass is validated ahead of the inaugural trip, the ‘clock’ starts running.

What Are Some Of The Recommended Train Journeys?
- The Highlands of Scotland, where incredible natural scenery can be found, including the mystical Loch Ness and Great Britain’s highest peak, Ben Nevis
- The night train from Vienna to Budapest, famous for being one of the most scenic train rides in Europe
- The dreamy Turkey trip between Ankara, Turkey’s capital, to the historical Kars, with breahtaking views o the Anatoliann highlands
- The relaxing 7-hour journey from Paris to Milan with the world-class Frecciarossa, passing through the idyllic French countryside
- The Glacier or Bernina Express, traveling through the majestic Swiss Alps into Northern Italy
↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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
[ad_2]

Source link
August 3, 2022
This Is Why Americans Should Be Happy Europe Will Charge An Entry Fee In 2023
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 4 mins ago

In recent weeks, we’ve seen a huge furor on the internet after Europe announced tourists will be charged an entry fee from 2023. Millions of U.S. citizens, who had been allowed to travel to the continent for years requirement-free, were not exactly thrilled at the prospect… Except they should be. On this article, we will explain why this is good news.

And while you read it, you may find out things about your own country that may surprise you…

For years, Europe has been mulling over the introduction of a travel authorization system, which would require non-European travelers to apply online for a permit to visit ahead of flying to the region. After dealing with several delays resulting from Covid and other internal issues, it seems like European lawmakers’ new priority is introducing this scheme.

Trust us, although it feels like being picked on by the cold-hearted politicians in Brussels, Americans will in fact benefit from this:

What Exactly Is Europe’s New Entry Fee?

The ETIAS, an acronym for European Travel Information Authorization, is a system the European Union and its Schengen Area-associates will put in place starting in 2023, aimed at increasing security at their external borders and cutting down irregular migration. On top of that, it aims making the screening process easier for foreigners.

Once it launches, the ETIAs will have an official website, as well as a mobile app, where visitors will be able to apply. Americans (as well as Canadians and Brits) who were allowed to travel to the Schengen Area with only their passports, as of now, will not be allowed to board their flights unless they hold a valid travel authorization.

It will cost €7 (or roughly $8) and it will be valid for up to 3 years. This means that, once you have obtained your first ETIAS in January 2023, you will be able to travel to Europe as many times as you want until January 2026, provided that you respect other Schengen Area rules, such as not staying for longer than 90 days out of every 180-day period.

So Why Should Americans Europe Is Charging Them?

Europe is overhauling its whole immigration policy. Besides bringing in the ETIAS, it may also be moving its cumbersome visa application process online, in a move that would make it easier for visa-requiring nationals (like Indians, the Chinese, Turkish) to submit applications via the internet. Americans have, luckily, been exempt from the latter.

Many U.S. passport holders do not know, but the travel freedom they enjoy is not shared by all other nationalities. Americans can visit up to 186 countries either visa-free, or by paying for a visa on arrival – Iran citizens are not so privileged, being welcome in only 42 other countries without visa restrictions.

Applying for one is not the easiest task either. Unless they are traveling to an obscure African or Asian nation that demands visas, Americans will never have to fill out an application form, schedule a visa appointment at a Consulate, fly thousands of miles all the way to D.C. to attend a scrutinizing interview, surrender their passport, and then still risk getting a hard ‘no’.

That is the reality for many travelers, usually those coming from low-income countries when they seek entry into the Western World, namely the U.S., Canada and Europe. It is not as straightforward or simple as it is for Americans. In order to enter the Schengen Area, those subject to this regime currently need to apply for a new visa every single time they travel.

Even if they have a layover in Europe, or a short four-day vacation in Barcelona or Athens, certain categories of travelers are subject to the grueling procedure we have detailed above. Not once, but on every individual trip they take, and refusal rates are getting higher. Fortunately, Americans are not among them.

Instead, they can simply pack their passport, other travel essentials and hop on a plane the day after booking a ticket. Doesn’t freedom feel awesome? Well, believe it or not, Europe is in truth extending that freedom through its ETIAS scheme. Once the new border regulations are rolled in, all nationalities who will not require a visa will need instead an ETIAS.

By being subject to a Travel Authorization, Americans are being granted the privilege to continue visiting Europe visa-free. Unlike other media news outlets have wrongly pointed out lately, the ETIAS is far, very far from being equivalent to tourist visas. As you have learnt today, those are much harder to obtain.

Main Differences Between Schengen Visas And ETIAS

Here’s a quick comparison between both:

Actual visas
- Face-to-face interviews are usually required
- A visa sticker is glued to the passport page every time an applicant seeks entry into Europe, making they run out of pages faster
- Visa nationals are granted the right to travel for the exact amount of dates they inform the Consulate, whether it’s 7 days, 14 days, etc
- It costs $81 to apply
- Refusal rates are high and a majority of fees are non-reimbursable
ETIAS
- It is a simple online form that can be filled out in a matter of minutes
- You can use a single ETIAS for travel up to the 3 years
- The fee is only $8
- If your 7-day vacation plans change, you can still stay in Europe for up to 90 days without being penalized
- 95% of ETIAS will be automatically granted, while the remaining 5% will be processed within a few days, and an even smaller percentage denied
The ETIAS will facilitate screening once arriving to Europe. Were you ever welcomed by one of those grumpy border guards that grilled you about the purpose of your trip? Those holding a Travel Authorization will still need to go through customs, but they will have an ‘approved traveler’ status, dramatically reducing wait times.

You get it now? As strange as it may seem, Americans are not being punished by Europe’s new entry conditions: they are being included on the ‘fast-track’ group. ETIAS in hand, they will be allowed to keep country-hopping across a restriction-free Europe – as will Canadians, Brits (now that they are out of the EU), Australians and New Zealanders.

The U.S. Has A Travel Authorization Scheme Of Its Own

Europe is not the only destination that has a travel authorization scheme in place. Many Americans will not be aware of this, but the U.S. has its own, called the ESTA, which Europeans themselves have had to apply for years. Of course, U.S. passport holders (as well as Canadians) do not need an ESTA for travel, but it still applies to all of these countries.

America’s ESTA has been in place since 2009, much earlier than Europe’s, and has proved a powerful tool in stopping ‘undesirable’ foreigners, such as criminals, from visa-waiver countries from entering. Europe is merely ‘returning the favor’, and that is not necessarily a bad thing for travelers on both sides of the pond.

Countries like Australia and New Zealand also demand a travel authorization of visa-exempt nationals, and they are not necessarily a bad thing. They are a pact of mutual trust between countries, seeing that, beyond the Western World bubble, most of the world still requires traditional visas.

Earlier this year, the U.K. was the latest to announce its own ‘ETA‘, signalling this online pre-approval form is the future of travel. So Americans, rejoice: Europe has not identified you as risky travelers who might overstay their time as tourists and will, thus, need visas starting in 2023. All that’s needed is a quick, easy-to-fill online form, a negligible $8 fee, and that’s you.

For more information on ETIAS, including its implementation date, please visit this page.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Malta Finally Removes All Covid Entry Requirements

How Europe Is Taking Action To Alleviate Travel Chaos

This Fascinating Eastern European Country Has A New Digital Nomad Visa For Americans

These Are The Cheapest And Most Expensive Countries To Visit In Europe

↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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
[ad_2]

Source link
July 16, 2022
What To Do If You Get COVID While Traveling In Europe
[ad_1]
Share The Article

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.
Read More:

Malta Finally Removes All Covid Entry Requirements

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

8 Tips for Navigating Travel Chaos and Flight Delays This Summer

↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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
[ad_2]

Source link
July 15, 2022
Central America Beats Europe To Become The Number One Destination For Solo Travel

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 1 min ago

Now that the pandemic has changed the way we perceived the world, and even our travel behaviors, some unexpected trends are gaining traction. Solo travel is undeniably one of them, with individual bookings leading industry sales as more people feel encouraged to explore new destinations by themselves (and create their own memories).

For years, Europe held the title of ‘Tourism Capital’ of the world, due to its well-developed hostel and backpacking scene, as well as excellent transportation links, which makes country-hopping an easy feat. As the Old Continent reopens, many expected it to reclaim that title after being stuck in a two-year loop of travel restrictions.

Surprisingly, its solo travel hegemony may have been challenged… By the most unlikely of tourist destinations:

Bookings For Solo Trips In Central America Are Soaring

According to new information shared by Hostelword, a booking platform specialized in hostels and affordable stays, the massively underrated Central America has surpassed Europe in hostel bookings for the first time since the company started collecting booking data, all the way back in 1999 when it was founded.

As the experts at Hostelworld confirm, Central America (and Mexico) are rising in popularity in the post-pandemic world, even more so than Europe’s leading tourist destinations like France and Spain. More specifically, Central America bookings are up 40% since 2019, and this can largely be attributed to solo female travelers.

For years, the enigmatic world south of Mexico, and north of South America had been ignored by tourists, particularly young women who had safety concerns regarding travel in the region. More often than not, the US Department of State issues stark travel advisories for Latin American countries, usually citing crime and violence.

As official travel guidance, they should be taken seriously, but we cannot discount the fact that travelers now want to see the world for themselves, and they have grown more and more independent in their own risk assessments. The recent data provides undeniable evidence of that, with some of Central America’s rising stars topping rankings for solo travel – regardless of advisories.

Countries like Mexico, Costa Rica and Guatemala have all made it to Hostelworld’s latest Top 10 Trending Destinations For Solo Female Travelers list. As suspected, Mexico is a leader in new bookings, with guest numbers up 79 per cent, while Costa Rica trails behind at 60 per cent, and Guatemala rounds the Central American/Mexico top 3 with a 55 per cent increase.

What Makes Central America Such An Appealing Destination For Backpackers?

While these destinations were already incredibly popular prior to 2022, they were not necessarily seen as solo travel hubs, especially due to the lack of a strong hostel culture in the European model. Additionally, connectivity between Central American countries has always been a big barrier – one that Europe managed to overcome ages ago with its successful Schengen Area.

Central America countries may not be as integrated as their European rivals, but recent projects have been announced with the sole purpose of easing obstacles for travel between neighboring nations. This includes new tourism routes across the Mayan World and increased flight frequency between capital cities.

On top of that, the continent’s central strip is incredibly affordable compared to traditional tourist epicenters in Europe: the aforementioned Guatemala has ranked as the least expensive country for solo travelers in Central America, with average daily expenses at USD 39,00 – still 29.68% cheaper than the cheapest city in Spain.

Europe may offer a myriad of options for long-term, solo travelers on a budget, but even then, it can be ridiculously expensive compared to Central America. Seeing that prices are going up further due to the ongoing crisis, and the nearby war in Ukraine, it should come as no surprise that backpackers are looking elsewhere for new life-changing experiences.

Moreover, Europe may have the highest concentration of castles, picturesque Old Towns and History spanning millennia, but it simply cannot beat Central America’s nature. Based on Hostelworld’s March 2022 Solo Travel survey, 74 per cent of solo adventurers said their priority when traveling is ‘looking for nature’ and ‘natural world experiences’.

Indisputably, it is home to some of the world’s most bio-diverse lands, where travelers can find tropical forests, unspoiled Pacific and Caribbean beaches, unique wildlife, and countless scenic hiking trails. Lastly, these countries’ more relaxed visa regimes usually allow for short or longer stays without the bureaucracy associated with lengthy visa applications.

When traveling on a US, Canadian, British or EU passport, backpackers generally do not need visas at all for Central America.

Bottom Line

Solo travel is here to stay, and it seems like the Americas might be the new hotspot for backpackers, finally unseating mighty Europe after years, maybe decades of dominance. Be that as it may, we would like to reiterate solo travel does not come without its risks, particularly at a time when travel disruption is rampant.

If you are going on a solo trip, make sure you get insured for delays and cancellations ahead of flying: some of the best insurance providers, including HeyMondo and Safety Wing, offer pretty affordable (and comprehensive) policies. Lastly, make sure you check all Covid entry requirements that may still be in place at your final destination.

For more solo travel stories like this one, make sure you visit this link.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Mexico Authorities Partner With AirBnB To Provide Safer Vacation Rentals For Tourists

These Airlines Will Give Free Hotels And Attractions For Travelers On A Layover

These 3 Countries Just Made It Easier To Visit

Mexico Fails U.S. Airspace Safety Review as Airport Saturation Continues

↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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

[ad_2]

Source link

July 7, 2022
How Europe Is Taking Action To Alleviate Travel Chaos

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 7 mins ago

The global aviation and hospitality industries have had a tough summer so far, but Europe has been especially affected. Travel demand has shot up as society moves beyond the pandemic era, and airlines, hotels, and service industries are struggling to keep up. Staff who were let go or furloughed during Covid haven’t returned to the sectors after moving on to better jobs, and many employers can’t hire enough people to keep up with demand. However, several initiatives are taking place in Europe to try to alleviate some of the chaos of traveling this summer.

In the United Kingdom, the Department for Transport (DfT) has changed laws regarding the recruitment of aviation staff. This comes after they explained the reasons for disruption to airlines and airports: pent-up travel demand, staff shortages, and the amount of time required to run background checks and train employees before they are allowed to begin work. As the DfT has no control over consumers’ demand for travel, they have decided to try to solve staffing problems, scheduling problems, and the time required for new employees to begin.

The first part of their initiative outlines expectations for the aviation industry regarding a realistic schedule. Five expectations are specifically laid out in the report. Schedules are to be evaluated to ensure they are achievable, all staff are expected to work together on resilience planning, travelers have to be advised of their passenger rights in the event of a disruption, there can be no compromise in security or safety, and assistance must be given to disabled or less abled passengers. These expectations come after several airports in Europe, including London Gatwick and Amsterdam Schipol, have announced plans to limit flights for the summer.

As for staffing shortages and background checks, the UK has made several changes. To attract new talent, they have launched the Aviation Skills Recruitment Platform and the Talentview Aviation platform to target colleges and universities. The most significant change announced is a law change that allows the aviation industry to utilize new staff more quickly. According to the DfT, the change has meant that accreditation checks are finalized in five days or less, and counter-terrorist checks are finalized in 10 days or less. This is a significant improvement and is half the average times from March.

In a similar fashion, many hotel brands based in Europe are loosening hiring standards in order to hire more workers. One hotel brand, Accor, is trying to acquire 35,000 new employees to staff their hotels in over 110 countries. In France, the company is weathering the storm by limiting services and allowing migrants and younger people to fill roles. “We tried in Lyon and Bordeaux ten days ago and this weekend we’re having people interviewed with no resume, no prior job experience and they are hired within 24 hours,” said Chief Executive Sebastien Basin at the Qatar Economic Forum in an interview with Reuters.

Echoing the pains seen in France, Spain and Portugal are also struggling to recruit and retain staff amid rising tourism. José Luiz Yzuel, president of Hospitality in Spain, has said that the solution will surely be more pay for workers. Indeed, Spain has seen a significant wage increase for restaurant and bar workers in the first quarter of the year. Growth in wages was higher in the restaurant, catering, and hotel sectors than it was in any other sectors, according to a press release from the Instituto Nacional de Estadística (Statistics National Institute) in Spain.

A similar pattern is unfolding in Portugal. According to a press release from the Banco De Portugal (Bank of Portugal), the accommodation and food services sector separates itself from other sectors by having the most significant expected wage acceleration for 2022.

While the above countries continue to develop new tactics to meet the rising demand for travel and tourism, the rest of Europe is undoubtedly working on their own plans to alleviate the current chaos facing the travel industry. When heading out for a vacation this summer, travelers should plan for the unexpected. Travel delays, cancellations, and changes are the current normal for the industry. Hopefully, however, the improvements above and more to come will bring stability to future travel plans.

↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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

[ad_2]

Source link

July 6, 2022
These Luxury 5 Star Hotels In Europe Are Under $150 This Summer

[ad_1]

Share The Article

Last Updated 39 mins ago

While most news headlines are talking about the insane cost of travel right now, there are still incredible deals to be found throughout Europe, even in the middle of high season.

Budget travel and luxury often seem to oppose one another. However, this list of five-star European hotels proves that luxury doesn’t always have to come at a high cost. From the Cotswolds of England to Spanish islands, to the Greek Mediterranean, not all five-star stays have to be hundreds or thousands of dollars per night. There are plenty of luxurious stays for far less than one might think.

Spain

Eurostars Gran Vía Hotel – $95

Image: Eurostars Gran Vía Hotel

This luxury hotel features a spa with a Turkish bath, with the option to book a massage and several other treatments for those looking for a luxurious day filled with relaxation. The hotel is set in a 19^th-century building on Gran Via de Colon, one of the main streets of Granada, Spain. The property has a rooftop terrace with incredible views of the city.

Granada is a popular destination for those who appreciate architecture, wish to be able to ski and go to the beach on the same day, and enjoy the welcoming culture this beautiful city offers.

Check Prices At Eurostars Gran Vía Hotel

Image: Eurostars Gran Vía Hotel

Spain

Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey – $142

This stylish colonial-style hotel is a great place to unwind and call home during a stay in Tenerife, Spain. The hotel features a spa for those looking to relax and is located near the best amusement park in the world, according to Tripadvisor, Siam Park.

Tenerife is a popular destination for those heading to Siam Park, travelers who enjoy hiking, and stargazers. Tenerife’s pine forests, volcanic terrains, and lush valleys make it an excellent area to hike and explore the natural landscape. And for those with their eyes to the sky, Tenerife’s location between the Atlantic and the Sahara, high altitude, and lack of light pollution make it an excellent area for stargazing.

Check Prices At Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey

Image: Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey

Spain

Caleia Mar Menor Golf & Spa Resort – $120

This hotel is a popular choice for those who enjoy getting a round of golf, visiting the spa, and getting in some quality R&R on the resort grounds. Spa treatments are discounted for guests of the resort, and guests can also take advantage of the on-site gym and tennis courts.

This hotel is located in Torre-Pacheco, a smaller tourist destination in Spain that offers an authentic Spanish experience for those who enjoy visiting lesser-known destinations.

Check Prices At Caleia Mar Menor Golf & Spa Resort

Image: Caleia Mar Menor Golf & Spa Resort

Italy

Meliá Milano – $135

Image: Meliá Milano

Meliá Milano is set in the beautiful city of Milan, Italy and is a 10-minute walk from the popular shopping district, CityLife. A popular town for artists, designers, and photographers, Milan is a picturesque city that offers something for every travel style.

Milan is less touristy than cities like Rome or Florence and provides a more authentic experience of Italian life. The architecture is incredible, the food is to die for, and of course, the fashion is unmatched.

Check Prices At Meliá Milano

Image: Meliá Milano

France

Pavillon Regent Petite France – $150

Located on the banks of the river Ill, the Pavillon Regent Petite France is a beautiful property that looks like it was plucked right out of a fairy-tale. River views can be enjoyed from many bedrooms, and breakfast awaits each morning. The hotel is located in Strasbourg, France, which features a blend of French and German cultures, likely due to its location along the Rhine River across from Kehl, Germany.

Alsatian cuisine, unique shopping experiences, and the beauty of Strasbourg’s Old Town are popular reasons why visitors stay in this fantastic city.

Check Prices At Pavillon Regent Petite France

Image: Pavillon Regent Petite France

France

Château d’Apigné – $129

Image: Château d’Apigné

Set on a gorgeous 60-acre park, the Château d’Apigné is located just five miles from Rennes, France. All the rooms in this magnificent castle estate are beautifully decorated and soundproofed for a great night’s sleep. The on-site Les Tourelles restaurant serves traditional French cuisine and offers breakfast daily. Nearby Rennes is home to nearly 300 half-timbered buildings and is certainly a picture-worthy visit.

Check Prices At Château d’Apigné

Image: Château d’Apigné

United Kingdom

Kimpton Clocktower –$146

Image: Kimpton Clocktower

Located in Manchester, England, the Kimpton Clocktower offers a modern style and is only a few minutes walk from The Palace Theatre and Oxford Road Rail Station. Unique shopping experiences are within walking distance, and the airport is only 20 minutes away by car.

Manchester is home to interesting architecture, the most well-known football (soccer) club in the world, and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Check Prices At Kimpton Clocktower

Image: Kimpton Clocktower

United Kingdom

Cotswold Grange – $143

Few places in England are as beautiful as The Cotswolds, and the English countryside here will not disappoint. The rooms come with rainfall showers, full tea and coffee setups, plus homemade cookies.

For those who also love horse racing, Cotswold Grange is within walking distance of the world-famous Cheltenham Racecourse. Boutique shops, unique restaurants, and art galleries are within walking distance of this charming Cotswold stay.

Check Prices At Cotswold Grange

Image: Cotswold Grange

Czech Republic

Cosmopolitan Hotel Prague – $150

Image: Cosmopolitan Hotel Prague

Located on a quiet street in Prague’s city center, the Cosmopolitan Hotel Prague is near Prague’s Old Town Square, only a few minutes walk from the Palladium shopping mall.

The luxury boutique hotel offers a gym and sauna to relax before heading out for an unforgettable day or night in this vibrant city. The property was originally built 1889 and has been restored into a modern luxury boutique hotel. They’ve kept some of the original charm, but added in some modern creature comforts, like Swavorski details in the rooms, with plush robes and slippers.

Check Prices At Co smopolitan Hotel Prague

Image: Cosmopolitan Hotel Prague

Greece

Mediterranean Palace Hotel – $150

This Greek five-star stay offers incredible views of the Thermaikos Gulf. It is located in the heart of the commercial district in Thessaloniki. For a day filled with relaxation and luxurious treatments, guests can head to eh Bonsai Lagoon and Spa, which features a gym, sauna, massage rooms, and an indoor heated swimming pool.

Venture into the city of Thessaloniki for rich history, picturesque coastlines, and unique foods. After a day of taking in the sites, visitors can channel their inner night owl by dancing the night away at the numerous nightclubs in this vibrant Greek city.

Check Prices At Mediterranean Palace Hotel

Image: Mediterranean Palace Hotel

Read More:

Travel App Hopper Launches ‘Leave Hotel For Any Reason Option’

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

These Are the European Airports Travelers May Want to Avoid This Summer

↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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

[ad_2]

Source link

June 27, 2022
These Are The Cheapest And Most Expensive Countries To Visit In Europe
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 36 mins ago

Countries in Europe might be very close to each other but consumer goods and services prices can be way different. Do you know which country has the most expensive hotels and restaurants? A new report has all these answers.

In a recent publication made by the European Commission’s data analysis wing Eurostat, the Comparative price levels of consumer goods and services, Ireland and Denmark were considered the most expensive countries in the European Union (EU) with prices 40% higher than the regional average in 2021. Traditionally, countries like Finland, Luxembourg, and Sweden used to take the first place.

The cheapest countries in the EU are Romania and Bulgaria with prices 44% lower than the average, followed by Poland and Hungary. Restaurants and hotels were the main factors that affected each country’s rate.

Eurostat considered 36 countries in Europe and consumer goods and services in different categories. The analysis included food, non-alcoholic beverages, alcoholic beverages, clothing, energy —gas, electricity, and other fuels—, furniture, consumer electronics, transport services, restaurants, hotels, and more.

According to experts, the most expensive destinations are probably more expensive now since this study considered prices in 2021, before the Ukrainian war. A spokesperson for Bonkers.ie—a consumer information and comparison website— said for the journal Irish Examiner: “These figures were compiled before scores of hotels were block-booked by the Government to house asylum seekers and Ukrainians fleeing the war, which some say has led to prices in the hotel sector skyrocketing this summer.”

Travelers can use the information shared in this report to plan their next trip to Europe. They should also consider avoiding certain airports during summer and revise more specific information about costs in their preferred destination, like Spain’s report on the cheapest and most expensive cities.

The Most Expensive Countries In Europe

Denmark has been considered the most expensive country in the European Union, but other destinations on the continent are even more expensive. Eurostat made a ranking considering costs of living, combining many factors in the equation.

In the average list, “countries are sorted according to their overall price level for household final consumption expenditure”. These are the 10 most expensive countries in Europe according to the study:
1. Switzerland
2. Iceland
3. Norway
4. Denmark
5. Ireland
6. Luxembourg
7. Sweden
8. Finland
9. Netherlands
10. Belgium
Travelers will find the most expensive food in Switzerland, Norway, and Island. Norway is also known for selling the most expensive alcoholic beverages and tobacco, and Ireland in the European Union.

Regarding transportation services, Iceland is the most expensive. Switzerland has the most expensive hotels and restaurants in Europe and Denmark in the European Union. Ireland has surprised many with the high costs of living, especially the food prices. Food in Ireland is 17% higher than in other countries in the European Union, followed by Luxemburg.

The Cheapest Countries In Europe

If you want to travel on a budget, you can explore the Balkans —which are also part of the most restriction-free area in Europe— and make sure to visit fascinating destinations such as Turkey or Bulgaria.

Eurostat showed that the main gap in price among European countries was related to hotels and restaurants —which cost 3.4 times more in expensive countries compared to the cheapest ones. According to the data shared, these are the cheapest countries in Europe:

(p.s. Eurostat’s report included Turkey as a European country, as the nation has territory in both Europe and Asia.)
1. Turkey
2. North Macedonia
3. Romania
4. Bulgaria
5. Bosnia and Herzegovina
6. Poland
7. Montenegro
8. Serbia
9. Albany
10. Hungary
Turkey has the cheapest food, hotels, restaurants, and transportation services in Europe. And you will find the cheapest alcoholic beverages and tobacco in North Macedonia.

Within the European Union, Romania has the cheapest food, and Bulgaria has the cheapest hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. In the Schengen Area, Bulgaria offers the cheapest alcoholic beverages and tobacco.

Other popular destinations in Europe like France, Austria, Germany, Italy, and Portugal remain pretty close in the ranking, near the average prices in Europe.

Read More:

Eastern Europe Is Now The Most Restriction Free Area Of The World

These Are the European Airports Travelers May Want to Avoid This Summer

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

These Are The Cheapest And Most Expensive Cities To Visit In Spain This Summer

↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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
[ad_2]

Source link
June 26, 2022
Eastern Europe Is Now The Most Restriction Free Area Of The World
[ad_1]
Share The Article

Last Updated 11 mins ago

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.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

7 Underrated Destinations In Europe For 2022

Passengers Missing Flights Across Europe After Travel Chaos At Airports Continue

United And Delta To Relaunch Several Flights To Europe

Why Travelers Should Only Go Carry-On This Summer

↓ Join the community ↓

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

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS

Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox

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
[ad_2]

Source link
June 9, 2022