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Here’s How You Can Travel 33 Countries In Europe By Train For Less Than $200
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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
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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 3, 2022
Only 20 Percent Of Travelers In June Had No Issues, Here’s How You Can Join Them
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According to a survey by Bankrate, only 2 out of 10 travelers were able to complete their trips without any travel problems during the month of June. As summer has unfolded, there’s been turmoil in the aviation sector as airports and airlines have struggled with short-staffing. A significant increase in travel demand has made it difficult for the small amount of staff available to keep up. And to add fuel to the fire, inflation is higher than ever, making life more difficult for all travelers and airlines alike. As a result, about 80% of travelers surveyed reported some type of travel-related issue during their trips during the month of June.

Most Common Travel-Related Issues
- 57% of travelers reported higher costs than they were used to
- 26% reported difficulty finding availability with accommodations and flights
- 29% reported long wait times
- 27% reported unsatisfactory customer service
- 14% reported the loss of money due to canceled or disrupted plans
So What Can You Do?

While there is no way to 100% guarantee that you will complete your trip without disruption, there are ways to mitigate your risk. Before embarking on any travel, it is essential to know your passenger rights, what to do in case of lost luggage, and how to minimize your chances of losing luggage.

Combating Higher Costs

Unfortunately, inflation is higher than it has been in four decades. As a result, finding flights and accommodation that match previous year’s vacation budgets can be difficult. This summer, in particular, may be worth looking into a cruise, as it is likely the best value for money vacation this year. For costs while traveling, it can be tougher to save when prices are high. To minimize costs, be sure to use a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, try sticking to local foods that are often more affordable, and take advantage of attractions that offer free admission.

Combating Low Availability

It can be difficult to travel when nearly everything is already booked, but not all hope is lost! Here are a few things you can try when having difficulty finding accommodation.
- Call the hotel. Sometimes availability isn’t always up to date on booking websites, so it may be worth reaching out in person to see if any rooms are available.
- Get creative. Are you traveling with a group of four? Would one larger room work rather than two separate, or vice-versa? If the room you want isn’t available, there may still be a way to make it work with your group if you are flexible.
Combating Long Wait Times

Nobody likes waiting in line, but that is the unfortunate reality facing travelers this summer. Short staff has led to long wait times for airport security worldwide. If you are lucky enough to be flying out of certain airports, you may be able to skip the TSA line for free with advanced reservation. Otherwise, programs such as TSA precheck and CLEAR are your best bet for getting through airport security more quickly. While the programs are not free, they typically save a lot of time going through the TSA lines.

Combating Unsatisfactory Customer Service

There isn’t a way to force a service representative to ensure you have a good experience. Still, there are things you can do to heighten your chances of a good experience. As hard as it may be, staying positive throughout the interaction will do more for your case than anything else. Aviation staff have had a tough year, and they are much more likely to be on your side of an issue if you are easy to deal with and explain your situation efficiently. If you run into bad customer service and your problem remains unsolved, escalate the case until you’ve got what you need.

Combating Monetary Loss From Cancelled or Disrupted Plans

It’s nice when everything goes according to plan, but you should plan for the worst this summer. As cancellations and delays continue to interrupt travel plans, it is more important than ever to ensure you are protected. One of the best ways to financially protect yourself when planning a trip is to get travel insurance. Travel insurance often covers some of the “non-refundable” items on your trip’s checklist.

Putting It All Together

If you’d like to be a part of the 20% of travelers who experienced no travel-related issues, following some of the guidelines above will push you in the right direction. This summer is the first big travel season since the pandemic’s start, and demand has skyrocketed. If you expect the worst and plan for it, you will be one step ahead of the game and closer to an amazing, trouble-free trip!

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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 23, 2022
Don’t Check A Bag Right Now! Here’s What You Can Bring In Your Carry-On
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If you’re desperate to scratch that travel itch now that Covid has finally retreated, and a majority of countries have reopened, you probably noticed that the current travel landscape is looking dramatically different from the pre-pandemic years – and we’re not talking about health regulations or reinforced personal hygiene inside the aircraft.

All around the globe, airlines have been hit with a wave of flight delays, cancellations, and other logistical problems that are shaking the aviation industry to its core. As we have seen in a number of cases over the last couple of weeks, checking in days in advance, or even showing up has long ceased being a protective measure against disruption.

Now, travelers are being advised to travel prepared for the worst, and that includes arriving to their final destination without their bags:

Not Checking In Bags Is The Secret To A Stress-Free Vacation

Now that airlines are delaying more flights than ever before, and the situation on the ground is not much better, with handlers making a mess out of luggage shipping, any attempt to reduce disruption is valid. That means packing just enough clothes for a trip or, in other words, carrying cabin luggage only.

By avoiding the chaotic check in counters and heading straight to security instead, with only their carry-on in hand, travelers are able to reduce their own wait times significantly, both during departure and after arrival, and eliminate the risks of being deprived of personal items when they are most needed.

Luckily, some airlines allow you to bring a reasonable amount of items on board, without paying an extra fee. Expressly, it is possible for most non-Basic fare customers to bring a complimentary carry-on, along with a small backpack or purse, at no extra cost, though size rules still apply and they may vary – even if only slightly:

Full Service Airlines
- United Airlines
- Alaska Airlines
- Delta
- American Airlines
- JetBlue
- Hawaiian Airlines
- Air Canada
- WestJet
- Lufthansa
- KLM
- British Airways
- Air France
As a general rule among full service airlines, the carry-on bag must be 22” x 13” x 9”, or 45 linear inches including wheels and handle. An additional personal item (e.g. a laptop case, a purse or a small backpack) can also be carried, as long as it fits underneath the seat in front or, in some cases, the overhead compartment.

Having said this, select carriers may have specific rules, such as:

United Airlines

When booking a Basic Economy fare ticket, United customers are not allowed to bring a carry-on on board, being restricted to traveling with a personal item only unless they add extra bags. The personal item must be sized 9” x 10” x 17” or less. This rule does not apply to Economy, Economy Plus, or Business Class passengers.

Air France

Air France has a much more generous bag policy. Those flying Economy may take one hand luggage and one personal item free of charge, while other Premium Economy, Business or First Class ticket holders can bring two carry-on bags, as well as a personal item. Air France’s hand bag dimensions are 21.6” x 13.7” x 9.8”.

JetBlue

While all JetBlue fares include a personal item, only the Blue, Blue Plus, Blue Extra and Mint fares allow passengers to bring a carry-on bag on board. Those flying on the Blue Basic fare will need to pay $65 extra when approaching the gate with more luggage. More information can be found on the airline’s website.

WestJet

WestJet permits every guest with a ‘confirmed seat’ to travel with both a carry-on and a personal item at no additional costs, though their baggage dimensions are somewhat different from other airlines: carry-on bags must be sized 21” x 9” x 15” and personal items 16” x 6” x 13”. Varying fees apply at the gate when this size limit isn’t respected.

These airlines normally include a checked in bag for free, but then again, that is not the point here. When booking flights with these airlines, travelers are advised to double check their ticket fare and baggage allowance. In any case, you will also be allowed to bring duty free purchases in the cabin, in a separate bag, regardless of fare.

Low Cost Airlines
- Spirit
- Frontier
- Swoop
- Sunwing
- Ryan Air
- EastJet
- Vueling
Low cost airlines are a bit trickier to navigate when you’re looking to bring a carry-on with you on a journey. As their main goal is to maximize profit by selling as many tickets at the lowest possible fare, checked bags and in-flight services are either limited or come at a cost. Even then, carry-on bags are either free, or can be added for a small fee:

Here are some examples:

Sunwing

Each passenger flying with Sunwing is permitted one carry-on item and another personal item on board. The former cannot exceed 5 kg, or 11 lbs, and a 9” x 16” x 20” dimension must be observed, and the latter must be sized 9” x 11” x 5” or smaller. Unless included in the ticket fare additional checked bags must be purchased.

Frontier

Frontier, on the other hand, charges a fee for carry-on luggage, starting at $35 for those who pre-book it, and $60 at the check in counter. The maximum weight is 35 lbs and the following dimensions, or smaller, are required: 10” depth x 16” width x 24” height. A comprehensive list of Frontier baggage fees can be found here.

Ryanair

Indisputably the most popular European low cost carrier, Ryanair allows carry-on bags on board sized 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm from only 6 euros (or $6.16 at the current rate). Customers are allowed to pack up to 10 kg when adding a bag. On top of that, the Priority & 2 Cabin Bags offer allows both a carry-on, a personal item, and a further 10 kg check in bag.

EasyJet

With EasyJet, everyone can bring one small cabin bag on board sized 45 cm x 36 cm x 20 cm weighing up to 15 kg. However, it is important that passengers are able to fit it under the seat in front. Those booked on Up Front or Extra Legroom seats can bring a second, large cabin bag that fits in the overhead compartment (56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm).

A majority of these carriers have pretty decent luggage policies in place, even at the lowest possible fare level, including small fees for additional bags and other add-ons. The most obvious exception here is Sunwing, which only allows a 11 lb carry-on when most carry-on bags already weigh between 5 lbs to 8 lbs completely empty.

Some Packing Tips For Traveling Light

We know that downsizing is not always easy, particularly when it comes to packing for a week-long trip abroad. Whether it’s unpredictable weather or accidental spills, it’s always best to carry an extra pair of shirts for emergencies. While bringing a 23 kg bag may feel like the safer bet here, more isn’t always better.

Believe it or not, you can actually fit a lot into a carry-on, especially when following these simple, but extremely effective packing tips:
- Rolling clothes instead of folding them
- Picking items that can be used interchangeably for more outfit options*
- Using space-saving vacuum storage bags
- Putting socks, underwear, and other smaller objects inside shoes
*Planning daily outfits in advance, as opposed to deciding what to wear on the spot, also helps you pack smarter when traveling light.

The Liquid Issue

According to TSA guidelines for carry-on luggage, liquids must be transported in travel-size containers that contain no more than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters of any substance. Furthermore, each passenger is limited to ‘one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols‘, such as toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, other beauty products in liquid form etc.

Europe has similar restrictions, where a maximum capacity of 1 liter, in containers of up to 100 ml each per passenger has been established – though some airports in the continent have even scrapped liquid rules following the introduction of a new screening technology. Despite the good news, this is yet to be replicated in most international hubs.

While other airports don’t catch up, the best tips for ensuring your liquids fall within the accepted limit are:
- Opting for travel-sized liquid cosmetics, such as foundation
- Packing bar soap and shampoo whenever possible
- Considering what full size products can be purchased at your final destination instead
Bottom Line

As baggage handlers are overwhelmed with an influx of air traffic, especially now that the U.S. has lifted its inbound testing rule for Americans, opening the travel ‘floodgates’, passengers are facing a veiled, but very real threat of losing their bags during an international trip. In sum, checking bags is the last thing you want to do traveling this year.

According to Paul Stewart, the managing director of shipping company My Baggage, hundreds of passengers across the UK are being separated from their baggage for hours (sometimes days), due to some airlines’ inability to manage higher passenger numbers. It goes without saying that a missed bag is no minor inconvenience.

Many travelers carefully select outfits they plan on using while on vacation, and although that is not advisable, even carry valuable personal belongings in their hold luggage. Unfortunately, retrieving a luggage that’s been lost in the mail is no easy feat either: as Stewart claims, it may take weeks before an airlines sends the customer’s belongings via courier.

By the time the luggage finally finds its way to the owner, it is likely vacation plans will have been ruined. When traveling, we may often plan for emergency expenses, but shopping for a whole new rack of clothes for the entire time you’ll be abroad for will not cost a negligible 100 dollars extra – it will have a debilitating impact on travel savings.

Besides the most obvious – getting insured for lost luggage – dropping the excess weight is a simple solution for dodging these major travel woes. Now that cancellations are rampant and numerous airlines are experiencing delays or re-routing flights, downsizing bags and keeping all your belongings within reach is truly the best option moving forward.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Complete Guide To Canadian Airlines and the Destinations they Fly

Delta May Offer You $10,000 Dollars To Get Off An Overbooked Flight

Canada’s Strict Border And Vaccine Rules Are Preventing Americans From Visiting

Skip The TSA Line For Free At These Airports With Advanced Reservation

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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 7, 2022
Disney To Launch Newest Cruise Ship – Here’s What Travelers Can Expect

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

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

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

Disney’s Latest Ship – Information For Travelers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More:

U.S. Drops Covid Testing Requirement For International Arrivals By Air

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

These U.S. Theme Parks Will Be Offering Free Beer This Summer

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

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June 11, 2022
Travel To Cambodia Is Back: Here’s What It’s Like On The Ground
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Last Updated 55 mins ago

Testing and quarantine have been scrapped for vaccinated travelers in recent months, land borders are reopening, and local businesses are preparing for new customers. Travel to Cambodia is back as the Southeast Asian nation gets ready for more visitors after a two-year closure.

But, what’s it like on the ground? Here’s a glimpse into Cambodia’s reopening for tourism in 2022.

Land Border With Thailand Recently Reopened, Border With Vietnam Scheduled To Reopen

In an effort to boost Cambodia’s reopening process, the Kingdom reopened its land border crossing with the northeastern province of Surin in neighboring Thailand early last week, according to a local report in the Khmer Times.

This is the first time the land border has been open to travelers since it closed in 2020 during the pandemic. The borders are open to local as well as international visitors and vaccinated persons do not need to show a negative Covid test or quarantine upon arrival when crossing the border into Cambodia.

The Surin land border is a popular overland crossing with backpackers and other travelers, as it’s a 7-hour direct bus ride from Bangkok to Siem Reap with a stop at the border.

Can I Get A Visa On Arrival For Cambodia?

To streamline the travel process, international visitors are now eligible to get the visa on arrival for Cambodia at both the air and land border check points. Tourist visas will be valid for a stay of 30 days upon arrival.

Applying for an Evisa or opting for the visa on arrival option were the top choices by travelers entering Cambodia pre-2020. The visa on arrival service was halted throughout the pandemic, and reinstating it is one of the many entry requirements that have been eased this year as Cambodia slowly reopens for travel.

It was announced on Friday that the land border crossings for travelers will also reopen between Cambodia and Vietnam. Although no date has been officially set at this time, the decision was made by officials in both countries.

On top of the land border reopening, reports also reveal that officials have agreed to ramp up direct flights between the neighboring Southeast Asian nations. With ongoing travel restrictions and air carriers suspending services, air travel throughout the region has been limited for tourists over the past two years.

Entry Requirements For Kingdom Of Cambodia: Information For Travelers

Here’s a review of the latest entry requirements for travelers to Cambodia. This is the most relaxed it has been in over two years, and the Kingdom of Cambodia is ready to welcome international visitors again.

For fully vaccinated travelers entering Cambodia via land or air:
- No quarantine
- No pre-departure or on arrival Covid tests required
- Proof of vaccination is still required (full course of doses from any WHO-approved Covid vaccine)
- Travel medical insurance to cover the cost of treatment in the case of hospitalization: minimum of $50,000 USD coverage.
- Visa on arrival is allowed: the cost of the tourist visa is $35 USD for a maximum stay of 30 days.
Unvaccinated travelers to Cambodia by land or air:
- Must show a negative PCR test result from no later than 72 hours of travel to Cambodia.
- Quarantine for 7 days upon arrival at a government-approved hotel. Must show at least $2000 in funds (per traveler) to cover the cost of the quarantine.
- Take a Covid test upon arrival before quarantine, and take a second Covid test on Day 7.
What’s It Like In Cambodia? Thoughts From Travelers On The Ground

Rich Chan is an American traveling in Cambodia. Currently based in Siem Reap as the country reopens to international tourism, he shared some thoughts with us at Travel Off Path.

“With the recent reopening of Cambodia and the tourism-based town of Siem Reap, home of Angkor Wat, there’s a breath of fresh air this town has been able to take after being on life support the last couple of years.”

Siem Reap is arguably the most popular destination for travelers in Cambodia. On top of ruins of Angkor Wat (which is a city in itself), Siem Reap is home to notable museums, other temples and architectural sights, and a bustling downtown area that keeps travelers from all parts of the world coming back for more.

Are Tourist Businesses Open In Cambodia?

Many small businesses around the world were forced to shut down as a result of the pandemic and businesses in Cambodia were no different. Even though some beloved restaurants, boutique hotels, and other businesses in destinations throughout the country have closed its doors, there are plenty of places ready and eager to welcome guests.

“All the businesses that haven’t shut down because of the lack of tourism are slowly going back to business as usual,” Richard noted.

The best way to support locals and tourism on your next trip to Cambodia is to book a day tour with a local tour agency once you arrive in a new city. From the capital city of Phnom Penh to a quaint riverside town of Battambang, there’s so many ways to make the most of your 30-day tourist visa in Cambodia.

Pay tuk tuk drivers to take you around, and shop at local markets or any other small businesses you come across during your trip. Go and see the impressive Phare Circus when visiting Siem Reap or Battambang.

And upon arriving in a new city, pay a visit to a cafe that supports local NGOs to splurge on a meal. Your donation will go directly to those most vulnerable in the community. Footprints Cafe in Siem Reap is a great example of a tourist-friendly restaurant that gives back to the community.

Read More:

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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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May 17, 2022
Travel Subscriptions Are Growing, Here’s What You Need To Know

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Travel subscriptions are becoming popular with airline and hotel brands, but what exactly is a travel subscription? While that can be a complex question to answer, we’re going to dive into the topic and how they can benefit travelers.

On the macro level, a travel subscription involves paying a monthly fee in exchange for a premium service provided by a travel company, but each travel subscription offers something a little different to its customers. With the U.S. dropping its travel mask mandate and travel booming again, let’s look at some of the travel subscriptions that are available to you now!

The Alaska Airlines Flight Pass

Alaska Airlines recently started offering a subscription flight service called flight pass. The Pass costs a fixed monthly rate of $49 to $550 (depending on the package you choose) and a yearlong commitment, Flight pass subscribers can take up to 24 round trips, depending on the plan, among 16 airports in California, Nevada, and Arizona.

With the $49 plan, subscribers can book one round-trip main cabin flight every two months for one penny plus about $15 in fees. At the moment, the flights need to be two and from the 16 listed airports, but could expand in the future.

What could be the benefit of a flight pass like this? Well, if you’re someone who travels often, then you know that the price of airline tickets fluctuates on a daily basis, sometimes skyrocketing out of nowhere and leaving you stuck. The flight pass price is locked in for your 1-year commitment. For example, if your roundtrip ticket from Sacramento to San Diego shot up to $300 overnight, you’d still be paying the $49 per month subscription.

Be Right Back Travel

Be Right Back kind of works like a travel agent for European destinations. You pay a monthly fee that is calculated after you answer a few questions about trip duration, preferred hotel rating, flight origins, etc. Then the service will ask you a few questions about your travel preferences, places you want to visit, and places you definitely don’t want to visit. An agent from their service then get’s to work on booking you a trip. You actually don’t know where you are going or your trip itinerary until two weeks before your travel date.

The Luxury Side Of Travel Subscriptions

On the other side of the price spectrum, the luxury travel platform Inspirato offers a subscription service for vacation rentals and high-end hotels starting at $2,500 per month. The pass offers travelers the freedom to book any destination included with their pass, and assists them with booking excursions, dinners, and other luxury amenities that a traveler could want.

For those wanting a premium luxury flight subscription, FlightXO starts at $595 per year and offers travelers access to private charter flights at a discount. Their memberships go up to a whopping $1000/m.

At The Airport

Another type of travel subscription focuses on your experience at the airport. TSA Pre-Check allows you to skip the line at the airport, leave your liquids in your carry-on, not take out your laptop, or take off your shoes. . TSA Pre-Check costs just $85 every FIVE years.

Credit Cards can also act as a subscription service. For example, the United Explorer card is $95 per year and comes with perks like airport lounge passes, miles for each purchase, payment for Pre-Check, and more.

New to many U.S. airports is the service CLEAR, which costs $15 per month and lets you fly through security, jumping the normal lines. Their expansion now has them in over 50+ airports and stadiums in the U.S., with more locations coming.

Are Travel Subscriptions worth it?

Well now that we have a basic understanding of the travel subscriptions available, are they worth it? Well, that really depends on the type of traveler you are. The Alaska Flight Pass could be useful to you if you travel across the west coast often. Be Right Back could be a fun idea for the free-spirited who are up for anything. Inspirato is an interesting concept for people who can afford it. It will be really interesting to see what other companies hop on the travel subscription trend.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 In 2022

Be Prepared As This Airport Has Returned To Being The Busiest In The World

↓ 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

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April 22, 2022