Tag: Restrictions

These Two Latin American Countries Have Just Dropped All Travel Restrictions Returning To Normal Tourism
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Following Colombia, two more countries in Latin America have just lifted all of their pandemic-era travel restrictions, allowing foreign tourists to enter under pre-2020 guidelines.

Despite having been well-reputed as one of the world’s most friendly destinations in the early days of the crisis, the geopolitical region was quick to shut down its borders once vaccines became available, imposing entry bans on non-immunized visitors and other draconian laws aimed at curbing the viral spread.

After nearly two years of strict border checks, countries in the region seem ready to reinstate normality, especially after the World Health Organization declared the pandemic to be ‘over‘:

Chile And Costa Rica Lift All Travel Restrictions

Within days of each other, the Hispanic countries of Chile and Costa Rica have abolished all COVID-related entry requirements, allowing all visitors to enter without observing health-related requirements for the first time since they were first imposed in early 2020.

This means that, from now on, U.S. nationals, and indeed any non-Chilean or Costa Rica passport holders, will be able to travel to both countries without worrying about COVID mandates, including showing a vaccination certificate and/or negative tests as valid proof of entry.

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Since May 5, 2023 and May 9, 2023, all of the following has applied to tourists seeking entry into Costa Rica and Chile, respectively:
- No vaccination proof is needed
- No pre-departure test is required
- No entry forms must be filled out prior to departure
- Unvaccinated travelers are not subject to stricter screening upon landing
The travel update was first issued by the relevant health authorities in the Latin states and then confirmed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) through its COVID-19 Travel Regulations Map and, ultimately, U.S. embassies in Chile and Costa Rica.

Prior to the update, unvaccinated travelers were routinely denied boarding flying to Costa Rica or Chile unless they could present a negative antigen test result issued in the preceding days or hours. In Chile’s case, online pre-travel registration was also mandatory.

Now, vaccine discrimination is no longer carried out by border inspectors.

What About Easter Island?

Despite being part of Chile, Easter Island, a volcanic island in Polynesia, may impose different entry requirements for foreign arrivals due to its special status.

If you plan on traveling to Easter Island, check with your airline regarding entry requirements in advance.

Previously, the island had completely shut itself out from the rest of the world in an attempt to protect its small populace from the ever-evolving COVID variants. They only lifted entry bans in May 2022, though health protocols continued to be applied.

Easter Island is famous for its moai sculptures, erected by native inhabitants between the 13th and 16th centuries, depicting large human figures with oversize heads.

This destination is served by nonstop flights leaving from Santiago, in mainland Chile, or Papeete, in French Polynesia.

Why Visit Chile?

Chile is one of the most fascinating natural world destinations in Latin America, as well as the most developed nation in the Global South.

Boasting an impossibly diverse territory, which encompasses alpine peaks and volcanoes, otherworldly arid landscapes, and an elongated, rugged Pacific coastline, Chile is every nature enthusiast’s dream getaway.

Some of the main attractions include:
- Santiago, the rapidly-growing national capital, with its clusters of skyscrapers rising against the Andes mountain range
- Valparaiso, a city best known for its street art and as the birthplace of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda
- The Atacama Desert, a vast plateau stretching over 990 miles with a Mars-like scenery
- Chiloé, the second largest island in South America after Argentina’s Tierra del Fuego, with a distinct culture and architecture than that of the mainland
- Iquique, a casino-riddled coastal town dubbed the ‘Monte Carlo’ of Chile
- The Chilean Fjords, best enjoyed on a cruise traveling through the Chilean Patagonia
- La Serena, a quaint town in Northern Chile and the gateway to the scenic Elqui Valley, a popular destination for hikers and trekkers
Why Visit Costa Rica?

Crowned Central America’s number one tourist destination, Costa Rica is the go-to place for a digital detox, with its dense tropical jungle unspoiled by mankind, pristine beaches, and laidback lifestyle.

Having launched one of the most accessible Digital Nomad Visas (DNVs) in the market, Costa Rica has been attracting both young entrepreneurs and remote workers in search of tax exemptions and a better life-work balance.

The top-rated spots in Costa Rica are:
- San Jose, the sprawling capital, home to world-class museums and a lively nightlife
- Cartago, a historical colonial-era town that served as the capital of Costa Rica between the 16th and 19th centuries
- The Manual Antonio National Park, packed with hiking trails and unruffled sandy beaches
- Arenal an area of outstanding natural beauty in Northwestern Costa Rica comprising an active volcano and a picturesque lake
- Monteverde, a popular ecotourism hub visited by more than 250,000 tourists every year
- The Poas Volcano, an active stratovolcano with two sulfur lakes in its core, offering a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding peaks
- Santa Teresa, a traditional coastal town jam-packed with backpackers, with a high concentration of hostels, surf shops, and trendy bars
Find out which countries have reopened for tourism recently clicking here.

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May 13, 2023
This Beautiful Southeast Asian Country Has Lifted All Travel Restrictions Returning To Normal Tourism
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Another Southeast Asian destination has lifted all Covid requirements returning to normal ahead of 2023. With immediate effect, Americans are no longer be subject to strict health controls traveling to Laos which is one of the most beautiful, and awe-inspiring countries in the sub-continent.

After sealing itself off from the rest of the world for most of the pandemic, Southeast Asia began to timidly reopen for tourism earlier this year as Covid cases dwindled. Fast forward a few months, and foreigners are welcome across a majority of states without restrictions or any border formalities, making it one of the easiest regions in the world to travel.

Luckily for the unvaccinated, the reopening trend is showing no signs of slowing down, even after the latest viral surge arising from China:

The Only Landlocked Country In Southeast Asia Is Lifting All Border Restrictions

2 years and 9 months after the World Health Organization issued a historical declaration confirming Covid as a pandemic, prompting numerous countries across the globe to shut down in response and clamp down on leisure travel, the small and gorgeous, but often overlooked nation of Laos is finally ready to reinstate normality.

Similarly to its closest neighbors, namely Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia decided to fully abolish all health-related border mandates on December 28, in the lead up to the New Year – it turns out Kayak editors were right when they boldly claimed that 2023 would be a ‘comeback year‘ for Asia, after all…

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Entering Laos in 2023, Americans and all other incoming passengers will no longer be required to present a vaccination card, nor undergo testing prior to departure when failing to qualify as fully immunized. Additionally, all on-arrival and post-arrival testing policies applying to the latter group have been canceled, ending months of vaccine discrimination.

Lastly, there are no quarantine requirements upon arrival to Laos, as the country has done away with all special provisions pertaining to the health crisis that had remained in force throughout 2022. Effectively, we’re witnessing a return to 2019 entry guidelines, including the reinstatement of visa-waiver agreements and visas on-arrival.

Do Americans Need A Visa To Enter Laos?

In short, yes, but the visa application process couldn’t be simpler.

American citizens can travel to Laos without requesting a visa in advance, but they must apply for one upon landing at one of the authorized points of entry, such as the Wattay International Airport. Applications are made on-site and tourist visas are normally issued for 30 days for a fee of USD $35, though they may be extended for a further 60 days upon request.

Alternatively, U.S. passport holders are eligible to apply for an e-Visa before departure through the official website, in order to avoid unnecessary queuing at the airport. Other than visa procedures and carrying a passport valid for at least six months, tourists are exempt from presenting any health declaration, or disclosing their vaccination status.

In sum, all of the below applies to international travelers arriving in Laos:
- No mandatory vaccination
- No pre-departure, on-arrival, or post-arrival testing
- No health declaration forms to be completed prior to flying
- No quarantine
Within the country, some Covid measures are still enforced, such as social distancing and mask wearing in certain premises, though the severity of requirements may vary across the country depending on infection levels. Once in Laos, foreigners are advised to follow all rules set out by local authorities, even when travel restrictions have been lifted.

Before the reopening, only fully vaccinated travelers were allowed to enter Laos test-free. The unvaccinated were required to undergo an ATK (Antigen) test 48 hours before departure. Since December 28, however, all travelers are treated equally irrespective of immunization status, nationality, and country of departure.

Is Laos Worth Visiting?

Despite its lack of sea access and colder temperatures, Laos is a Southeast Asian gem deserving of your attention. A mountainous territory rich in nature and famous for its distinct multi-cultural character, torn between centuries-old Buddhist traditions and the legacy of French colonialism, it can be a surprising, and rather unusual, cultural destination for 2023.

We like unusual.

Vientiane, the capital, is home to the That Luang monument, where Buddha’s breastbone is reportedly kept, French-inspired architecture and communist-era landmarks. Elsewhere in the tiny country, visitors will find grand waterfalls, river islands, elephant reserves, and a quaint, sparsely-populated countryside virtually unspoiled by mankind.

Lastly, Laos is a country packed with historical ruins and pilgrimage sites. One of the holiest is Wat Phu, a UNESCO-protected archaeological complex dating back to the 5th century and originally built as a Hindu temple. Today, it is open for tourists for a negligible fee of 50,000 LAK, or only US $2.88, and it is totally worth the two-and-a-half journey from Vientiane.

More information about tourist activities in Laos, as well as visa requirements, can be found here.

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December 30, 2022
U.S. Reinstates Travel Restrictions – Now Requiring Tests For Passengers From China

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If you thought COVID tests and traveler entry requirements were long over, you were thinking too soon because the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) just announced today that as of January 5, any traveler from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), and regions Hong Kong, and Macau will need a negative COVID test before boarding flights to the U.S.

This news comes on the heels of reports that China’s COVID case numbers are surging, with hospitals being overwhelmed with not having enough ER staff or beds to meet the demand of cases. China has been rolling back many of its strictest rules such as mass testing, lockdowns, and mandatory quarantines in the past month and announced earlier this week that it would be removing the requirement for overseas travelers to quarantine upon arrival. This move came as a surprise to some since the country has been struggling to contain the virus and has traditionally followed a Zero-Covid approach.

China has stopped reporting daily data on infections pointing to a lack of reliability over the data, but it has been estimated by a UK-based health data firm that the country is averaging around 5,000 deaths and more than one million infections per day.

Countries have pointed to new variants and slowing the spread of the virus as their reasoning for reinstating travel testing again, with the CDC pointing out that variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus are continuing to show up in countries around the world. The CDC explains that China has been specifically targeted due to its “reduced testing and case reporting” and that “minimal sharing of viral genomic sequence data could delay the identification of new variants of concern if they arise,” according to a CDC press release.

Following the CDC’s announcement, Italy revealed a few hours later it would require all passengers from China to provide a negative COVID test. Italy had been testing passengers arriving from China this week and had found almost 50% of passengers had tested positive on a flight to Milan.

Earlier this week, India announced that it would require travelers to have a negative COVID test before boarding, while Japan and Taiwan have implemented testing upon arrival, and Malaysia has increased tracking and surveillance measures.

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Italy’s Health Minister Orazio Schillaci reflected a similar sentiment saying “the measure is essential to ensure surveillance and detection of possible variants of the virus in order to protect the Italian population.”

Starting on January 5, passengers with direct flights from the PRC, as well as passengers using South Korea’s Incheon International Airport, and Canada’s Toronto Pearson International Airport and Vancouver International Airport as transits to the U.S. will need to provide a negative COVID-19 test if they have been in PRC for the past 10 days. This is regardless of nationality and vaccination status.

The CDC will also be expanding its Traveler-based Genomic Surveillance program (TGS), where it will test for new and rare variants with nasal swabs from voluntary passengers arriving at international U.S. airports. The program is currently in place at 5 major airports and is now being added to Los Angeles and Seattle, where collectively, it will test approximately 500 flights from 30 different countries per week to determine any new variants.

Other countries such as the UK and Germany have said they will be monitoring the situation closely, while some experts predict that the U.K. and other countries will soon follow suit.

As the world continues to monitor the COVID situation closely, certain areas are taking precautionary measures to curb the spread, such as bringing back mask mandates. Los Cabos has created mask mandates for indoor public settings and transportation, while other officials in cities like New York and Los Angeles are calling again for mask wearing in public spaces.

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December 29, 2022
The Netherlands Drops All Entry Requirements And Travel Restrictions
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Effective September 17^th, 2022, the Dutch Government has made the decision to get rid of all Covid-19 travel restrictions and requirements. This decision applies to all travelers, including those traveling into the Netherlands from outside the EU/Schengen area. The Netherlands kept their Covid protocols for travelers in place much longer than the majority of European countries. However, as of September 17^th, the country has officially taken its name off the list of the last European countries that still have entry requirements.

Currently, Spain is the last major European country with entry requirements still in place. As other long-time holdouts like the Netherlands drop their final remaining protocols, perhaps Spain will soon follow.

Who Is Most Affected? What Does This Mean For Travelers?

Until recently, the Netherlands had a complete ban on unvaccinated travelers from countries like America or Canada. As a result, this decision directly affects unvaccinated travelers from both countries. Before this decision, Americans and Canadians had to be fully vaccinated in order to visit the Netherlands. Visitors from EU/Schengen countries were allowed to enter the Netherlands without restrictions. Still, the country did not let up on protocols for any other travelers.

September 17^th’s decision means that unvaccinated travelers from all countries, including Americans and Canadians, will be able to enter the Netherlands without proof of vaccination or evidence of a negative Covid test. The country does not have any mask requirements in place, and all venues are open and operating normally. Traveling to the Netherlands now will offer an experience much like before the pandemic turned the world upside down.

Travel Chaos, Know Before You Go

This news will likely pique travelers’ interest, and some may be ready to book their next ticket out. Most travelers who visit the Netherlands go to the nation’s capital, Amsterdam. Indeed, the city was ranked as the 26^th most popular city in the world in 2019 when it welcomed 8.84 million tourists. Many people wanted to visit Amsterdam this summer even when the vaccine requirement was still in place. Unfortunately, the city’s airport was woefully underprepared. As a result, Amsterdam was the European capital of travel chaos this summer.

Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport had a rough summer, and it doesn’t look like it will get much better for travelers interested in visiting this fall. The airport announced on Friday, September 16^th, that it would reduce daily passenger counts by 18% through the end of October due to its labor shortage. The airport is one of the busiest in the world and is a significant transfer hub for many major airlines. However, the country recently made the decision to cut flights by almost 20% compared to pre-pandemic levels in an effort to combat climate change and get away from its “transfer hub” reputation.

An Odd Decision

Amsterdam is a city filled with beautiful canals, 16^th-century architecture, and of course – bikes. There are plenty of different things to do. Still, for many, the first thought after hearing about Amsterdam is of Marijuana. Famed for its lax rules regarding cannabis consumption well before most other countries in the world, Amsterdam has long been regarded as a haven for cannabis enthusiasts. Indeed, as much as 30% of all tourists that visit Amsterdam visit one of its coffee shops with the sole intention of purchasing cannabis, and it’s big business for the area.

That is why a recent push by the city’s Mayor may come as a surprise. The Mayor, Femke Halsema, intends to make cannabis purchases in the city a residents-only privilege. The plan has yet to be implemented. Still, travelers visiting with cannabis as one of their main reasons should keep an eye on the news to ensure they remain unaffected. This isn’t a set-in-stone change but is something being seriously considered – making it worth keeping tabs on.

Getting There

American travelers interested in visiting Amsterdam can fly direct from 20 U.S. cities, while Canadians can fly direct from 5. Travelers from both countries should be weary when flying back, as Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport has had extremely long lines this summer. Go to the airport much earlier than you would have in the past, and try to avoid checking a bag if possible.

Travelers flying to Amsterdam from Canada should be extra careful if they fly out of Toronto Pearson or Montreal Trudeau airports. Both were recently ranked as the first and second worst airports in the world for flight delays.

U.S. Cities That Fly Non-Stop To Amsterdam
- Boston (BOS)
- New York (EWR)
- Philadelphia (PHL)
- New York City (JFK)
- Detroit (DTW)
- Washington (IAD)
- Minneapolis (MSP)
- Chicago (ORD)
- Orlando (MCO)
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Miami (MIA)
- Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
- Austin (AUS)
- Houston (IAH)
- Salt Lake City (SLC)
- Seattle (SEA)
- Portland (PDX)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Las Vegas (LAS)
Canadian Cities That Fly Non-Stop To Amsterdam
- Montreal (YUL)
- Toronto (YYZ)
- Calgary (YYC)
- Edmonton (YEG)
- Vancouver (YVR)
This article originally appeared on Travel Off Path. For the latest breaking news that will affect your next trip, please visit: Traveloffpath.com

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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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September 18, 2022
These Are The Countries In Latin America With No Travel Restrictions This Fall
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It may seem as if the world has already moved on from Covid at this point, but in reality, some of the most popular destinations continue enacting entry rules and delaying the resumption of normal tourism. As we have detailed before, on our side of the pond, the list can be quite extensive, especially if you’re looking to explore Latin America heading into the fall. Luckily, there are countries in the region that have scrapped all Covid rules already and are eager to host Americans again.

On this article, you will find out which ones exactly.

Latin America has been abandoning its harsh anti-Covid policies this year after struggling with repeated viral surges for two and a half years, becoming at one point the world’s hotspot for infections. In fact, there was zero coordination throughout most of the crisis, with countries like Brazil and Colombia remaining relatively open for tourism while others like Chile and Argentina shut down borders completely.

Fortunately, the situation is changing, albeit slowly, and there is a clear reopening trend being observed now that Covid has subsided:

Americans Can Travel Requirement-Free To These Latin American Countries

Latin America is a personal favorite among Americans going abroad. Whether it’s the crystal clear beaches of Mexico’s Pacific Coast, on its northernmost edge, or Argentina’s deep south, where our civilization meets the vast wilderness of the Antarctica continent, this geopolitical region is full of both natural and man-made wonders.

It is also struggling to fully resume tourist now that Covid and its offspring have been largely contained. A majority of countries belonging to the group are yet to reinstate their pre-pandemic normality, in stark contrast with Europe, where only three destinations continue enforcing border rules (including the Netherlands, where unvaccinated Americans are banning from entering).

In spite of relying heavily on tourist dollars, Latin American nations have opted for a tougher approach, with Brazil only recently opening up to non-immunized travelers, though they are still required to get tested ahead of flying. Similarly, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Panama, Nicaragua and Honduras all follow the ‘vaccine or test’ model.

Generally, Americans must produce a valid vaccination certificate, in most cases with a WHO-backed vaccine, or alternatively, when unvaccinated, be able to present a negative Covid test issued up to a day, 48 or 72 hours (depending on the rules at their destination) when crossing the border. Considering how far we’ve come regarding Covid, it sounds pretty obsolete, right?

But it is the truth: most of Latin America has not returned to their pre-2020 state of normality. On the other hand, these select few Latin American countries below have been welcoming Americans irrespective of vaccination status:
1. Argentina
2. Cuba
3. Costa Rica
4. Dominican Republic
5. El Salvador
6. Overseas territories of France in the Americas: French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France)*
7. Panama
8. Guatemala
9. Mexico
*French Guiana is an integral part of France, but it is included on this list seeing that it is located in the American continent and it is a territory where a Latin language (in this case, French) is spoken.

The list includes restriction-free destinations in all of the Americas, be it North, Central, South, or insular nations, as long as a Latin language is spoken.

Less Than 10 Latin American Countries Have Reopened Fully

We define as Latin American all those countries where a language originating from Latin, such as the widely-spoken Spanish, Portuguese or French, are official languages. This definition is merely based on Language, hence, it does not include nations where English, Dutch, or any Western Germanic and thus non-Latin languages are spoken, even when they are located geographically in Central or South America (ex. Suriname).

As can bee seen above, only nine nations and/or regions in Latin America have lifted all of their Covid curbs, including the French Guiana, an overseas territory of France bordering Brazil. In all six, Americans are no longer required to present any health-related documentation, nor experience bureaucratic hurdles when traveling.

In sum, U.S. citizens visiting Argentina, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, any and all French territories in the Americas (or Metropolitan France over in Europe), Panama, Guatemala and Mexico are not subject to:
- Vaccine requirements
- Mandatory entry forms
- Pre-departure tests
- Post-arrival tests
- Post-arrival quarantine
If you’re a Latin America enthusiast and have opted not to get the shot, or you’re simply looking to avoid Covid mandates altogether even if you’re immunized, then these are the best picks. Additionally, Americans have unrestricted entry to Spanish-speaking Puerto Rico, which may not have lifted all Covid curbs, reflecting the mainland U.S., but has axed all Covid regulations affecting incoming U.S. tourists prior to departure.

Of course, Puerto Rico isn’t available as a fully open destination for non-American citizens, as they must observe entry rules for the United States as a whole. Up until now, the Americas’ number one economy has refused to announce an official reopening date, and has maintained a vaccine requirement in place, applying to all foreigners.

What Are The Best Latin American Destinations For Travel This Fall?
- Costa Rica
- Mexico
- Argentina
Some of the top destinations to visit in restriction-free Latin America include Costa Rica, where several natural landmarks can be found, including tropical forests, volcanoes, picturesque lakes and waterfalls; of course, Mexico remains a trendy vacay for Americans going south of the border this year.

Guanajuato, one of its colonial cities, has just been named ‘the most beautiful‘ in the entire country, at the same time that the charming, equally-historical San Miguel de Allende experiences a surge in bookings. This proves Mexico continues to be at the top of its game when it comes to tourism reinvention, as it looks to diversify its offer amid the tropical storm warnings issued for the coasts.

Lastly, there is Argentina, the only country in South America that welcomes Americans without Covid entry requirements. The home of tango, History icons like Evita, stunning cities like Buenos Aires and Mendoza, and guarding the gateway to the world’s edge, namely the frosty Ushuaia, it can be an incredible fall destination.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Argentina Wants To Become Digital Nomad’s Top Destination in Latin America

Top Destinations In The World Depending On How Old You Are

Travelers Are Still Required To Pay Tourist Tax When Visiting Cancun

The 8 Most Challenging Things About Traveling In South America

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

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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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September 17, 2022
Caribbean Destinations With No Restrictions This Fall & Winter
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With colder weather shortly setting in, travelers are eagerly planning their Caribbean escapes for this coming fall and winter. In order to make planning easier, Travel Off Path has gone through each Caribbean destination to see which are 100% restriction free for travelers. In short, this means travelers will not need to take tests, show proof of vaccine, or quarantine on arrival. All the countries listed below are open and operating like before the pandemic, making for the ultimate stress-free vacation.

Travelers should also be aware of the requirements of their own countries and any countries they may need to transit between. Unless otherwise stated, each country listed is open to U.S. and Canadian citizens. Travelers from other countries are likely free to travel as well but should verify on official sites. For convenience, links have been provided to each country’s site for current travel regulations.

Caribbean Countries That Are 100% Restriction Free
- Antigua and Barbuda
  
  Restrictions Lifted August 29^th, 2022
- Aruba
  
  Restrictions Lifted March 19^th, 2022
- Bonaire
  
  Restrictions Lifted June 1^st, 2022
- The British Virgin Islands
- Cancun & Riviera Maya (Mexico)
- Cayman
- Curacao
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Guadeloupe
- Jamaica
- Martinique
- Saba
  
  Protocol Site
  
  Restrictions Lifted May 1^st, 2022
  
  Travelers transiting through St. Maarten are required to fill out the country’s Electronic Health Authorization System (EHAS), regardless of vaccination status.
- St. Eustatius
  
  Protocol Site
  
  Restrictions Lifted May 11^th, 2022
  
  Travelers transiting through St. Maarten are required to fill out the country’s Electronic Health Authorization System (EHAS), regardless of vaccination status.
- Saint Lucia
- St. Barthélemy
  
  Protocol Site
  
  Restrictions Lifted August 1^st, 2022
  
  Travelers transiting through St. Maarten are required to fill out the country’s Electronic Health Authorization System (EHAS), regardless of vaccination status.
- St. Kitts & Nevis
- Trinidad and Tobago
- USVI OPEN
Caribbean Countries That Are Almost Restriction Free
- Puerto Rico
  
  Only entirely open to American citizens. International travelers will have to show proof of vaccination.
  
  Restrictions Lifted June 12^th, 2022
- Dominican Republic
  
  The only measure still in place is potential random testing upon landing.
  
  Restrictions Lifted April 23^rd, 2022
Where Are Travelers Headed?

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Jamaica was recently named the leading destination in the Caribbean and is also considered one of the best vacation spots for this fall and winter. Additionally, one of Jamaica’s tourist hotspots, Montego Bay, is regarded as the trendiest destination for 2022, and its airport is considered the best airport to fly into the Caribbean. Its vast selection of all-inclusive resorts also makes it a great destination to call home for a week or two this winter.

Cancun, Mexico

Cancun is another favorite for Americans traveling this fall and winter. Consequently, a recent report stated that Cancun ranks #1 for U.S. travelers this fall. In response, Cancun has added 38% (9.2 million total) more available airline seats than there were in 2019 in order to accommodate the surge in interest. Mexico was also one of the first destinations to remove all Covid requirements, and it seems to be paying off this year as travelers begin to get out there again after two years of restrictions.

A Word Of Caution

The worst days of the pandemic seem to be behind us, but that doesn’t mean these countries couldn’t change their policies. In fact, Germany recently announced that they would be reinstating their mask mandate for the winter. Always check travel requirements before heading off to your destination. Covid protocols, visa requirements, and other travel rules could all affect your trip, so it’s essential to double-check before heading to the airport.

Finally, after ensuring everything is in order, jet off to one of these beautiful Caribbean destinations this fall and winter for a vacation you won’t forget!

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

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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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September 9, 2022
This Is The Only Country In South America That Has Dropped All Travel Restrictions
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Following a relatively free summer and the waning of Covid, it might seem like the world has finally moved on from the pandemic and strict mandates are a thing of the past. This may be the case for most of Europe, Mexico and the like, but it is definitely not yet a reality in South America, where only a single country has dropped all travel restrictions.

For more than two years, the Southern Hemisphere has barred international travel in an attempt to keep variants from getting imported from abroad. Despite enjoying a robust protection, with countries like Brazil being world leaders in vaccination coverage, the region has continued to refuse entry to certain categories of travelers.

Most notably, unvaccinated Americans, with the exception of one:

Most Of South America Is Still Closed To Unvaccinated Americans

South America is an incredibly vast, and culturally diverse continent that for decades has attracted American tourists due to its high affordability and natural landmarks. Sadly, for the better part of 2022, a huge percentage of Americans, roughly 30%, is still prevented from returning based on their vaccination status.

Nearly every single South American country continues to impose a vaccine requirement at their external entry points, be it land crossings, airports or cruise terminals. Out of twelve, only one has mirrored the steps of Central American counterparts and Europe when it became the 27th country to return to their pre-2020 entry guidelines: Argentina*.

*The territory of French Guiana is free of restrictions, but as it is not a sovereign entity, being an integral part of France, in spite of being in South America, it is not taken into account

Argentina is the first in Mercosur, and on an extent in South America, to lift the pandemic-era restrictions affecting American travelers and other foreign visitors. As soon as April 2022, the home of Tango abandoned its hard-stance approach, which had made it into a completely isolated nation for a period, in favor of much more relaxed policies.

Argentina Has Been The Only South American Country To Drop All Restrictions So Far

Prior to that date, even Mercosur citizens, a bloc of which Argentina is a part of and where freedom of movement applies, had been barred from crossing the border. Now, any foreigner can enter Argentina, irrespective of their purpose of travel, and with no other requirement than a valid passport and/or visa when applicable.

For Americans, this effectively means:
- No vaccination required
- No boosters needed
- No pre-departure tests
- No post-arrival tests
- No quarantine
Conversely, all of Argentina’s neighbors remain ‘partially restrictive’, according to IATA’s Covid-19 Travel Regulations Map. Much like the EU in the earlier days of the crisis, Mercosur and its associated members have failed to coordinate actions in both introducing, and removing pandemic measures, leading to a confusing patchwork of rules.

European states, on the other hand, have worked through their differences and now a majority is open for travel. Below the Equator line, this level of cross-border harmonization has not been achieved as of this point. The most obvious disparity is seen between Brazil and Argentina, South America’s closest neighbors and top destinations.

The Confusing Patchwork Of Rules Affecting Tourists In The Region

While Argentina is open, Brazil only allows American visitors with proof of vaccination. A negative PCR or rapid antigen test, or even recovery certificates, are not considered valid proof of entry, though in Uruguay, bordering Southern Brazil, unvaccinated U.S. citizens are permitted to enter when presenting a negative test within 72 hours of departure.

Moving West, Paraguay accepts all of the above, on top of positive Covid tests (antigen, LAMP, NAAT or PCR) issued ‘at least 10 days and at most 90 days before boarding’. On the Pacific Coast, Chile accepts both vaccine certificates and PCRs not older than 48 hours, and travelers remain subject to testing on arrival, a controversial policy also enacted by Canada.

North of Chile, the Inca heartland of Peru, a favorite among hikers, has similar provisions, except it does not test tourists randomly upon landing. Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela and Suriname all follow the ‘vaccine or test’ model, while Guyana – not the French one – mimics Brazil in banning those who are not fully immunized.

Other regional discrepancies include:
- In Peru, tests must be of the NAAT kind, including RT-PCRs and RTLamps, and they must not be older than 48 hours
- Bolivia accepts PCR test results issued within 72 hours of departure, or Rapid Antigen tests taken at most 48 hours before boarding
- In Colombia, besides the 72-hour/48-hour rules for PCR and Rapid Antigen respectively, passengers must submit their personal information online via the Check Mig form ahead of traveling
- Venezuela imposes a validity date of 270 days on two-dose certificates, requiring tourists to present proof of a booster dose once this period has elapsed in order to be granted entry on the grounds of being immunized
- Venezuela only accepts PCR test results obtained 72 hours preceding arrival, as opposed to departure
- Guyana arrivals may be subject to random Covid tests on arrival, even when fulfilling other criteria such as being vaccinated
- Suriname‘s pre-departure test validity is 48 hours for PCR, 24 hours for Rapid Antigen
- Suriname is accepting recovery certificates issued up to 6 months prior to the date of travel
*Other rules may apply for any of the above countries. We advise our readers planning an international trip to keep up to date with the evolving regulations by visiting their country of destination’s Consulate website, where official requirements are described.

Bottomline

As you can see, the rest of South America has a lot of catching up to do with La Tierra de Los Hermanos and other Central American competitors in terms of post-pandemic management. As things stand, it is one of the strictest continents to travel right now, unless visitors qualify for exemptions as vaccinated foreigners or returning residents.

Luckily, the up-and-coming digital nomad hub of Argentina, a poster nation for travel freedom, is already welcoming Americans with open arms.

Read More:

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

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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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September 5, 2022
The Cayman Islands Return To Normal Entry Requirements Dropping All Restrictions
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American sunseekers, this is the moment you’ve been patiently waiting for. The Cayman Islands, one of the hottest cruise ports and leading destinations of the Caribbean has just dropped all entry requirements. Heading into the fall, the islands will no longer require visitors to present health-related documentation, finally reinstating pre-Covid normality.

For two and half a years, the famous archipelago applied some of the strictest rules in all of the Americas, barring unvaccinated visitors while requiring those able to produce a vaccination certificate to apply for authorization in advance. Naturally, these self-imposed barriers have been hampering the recovery of tourism.

Fortunately, as of this week these have all been lifted:

Cayman Fully Reopens For Tourism After Two And Half Years

For the first time since Covid was declared an emergency, the Government of the Cayman Islands has decided to rescind all regulations that have kept a large number of tourists from coming back to their favorite vacation spot. Beginning August 24, all will once again be allowed to enter free of scrutiny and strict border checks, including unvaccinated Americans.

This makes the British Overseas Territory the latest Caribbean destination to return to their pre-pandemic travel guidelines, in a list that includes all of America’s top rated sunny breaks. Prior to the Cayman Islands, Jamaica, The Dominican Republic, Belize and countless others opened up for tourism, moving away from the harsh zero-Covid approach.

Now, visiting Grand Cayman, or any other destination within the territory will feel like it was in 2019:
- No pre-departure testing
- No mandatory pre-arrival registration form
- No vaccination certificate required
- No booster certificate required
- No post-arrival testing
- No state-regulated quarantine
Whether they are arriving by sea or air, visitors will be able to step into the sun and enjoy their hard-earned break in paradise stress-free. As the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism confirms, starting this Wednesday, all American travelers are now permitted to cross the border simply by bringing a valid passport, ‘without the need of any additional documents’.

Although travel insurance is also not mandatory, we cannot stress enough the importance of carrying a valid insurance policy when flying abroad, especially now that U.S. airlines are failing to meet their targets and cancelations are widespread. Trust us, you don’t want to be left stranded in Cayman if your flight back is axed at the very last minute.

Find out more about travel insurance here.

What Has Changed Following The Latest Update?

Before the update, U.S. citizens and any other foreigners flying to Grand Cayman had to seek permission beforehand. The so-called ‘Travel Certificate’, which served as proof for Cayman border authorities that a traveler had been pre-screened and deemed fit for travel, could be easily obtained through an online portal – that is, if you were vaccinated.

Those who were not had their applications routinely turned down, unless they were a British Overseas Territory citizen linked to the Cayman Islands, or someone with close ties to local residents. Additionally, the few allowed to board a Cayman-bound flight or vessel had to present a negative test and later isolate at their accommodation, or home, for 7 full days.

The quarantine did not apply to vaccinated travelers, though they were still subject to the pre-arrival testing rule up until June 30. These regulations made the territory an outlier in the Caribbean, as a majority of countries in the region accepted Covid is no longer a disruptive disease and ceased to restrict tourism in return.

At last, Cayman has joined what we’re dubbing the Freedom Club.

What About Masks?

Similarly to the border restrictions, the Cayman Government has scrapped mandatory mask usage all across the islands. Since June 30, visitors have not been expected to wear face coverings in any indoor or outdoor settings, including:
- Beaches
- Clubs and entertainment venues
- Restaurants
- Leisure centers
- Public transportation
It is worth noting private establishments may still enforce mask usage.

The Cayman Islands are a collective of 3 small islands part of the British Commonwealth in the Western Caribbean. The largest of them, Grand Cayman, is the main entry point and a home to world-renowned resort brands, such as the Ritz-Carlton, Palm Heights and Margaritaville. On the other hand, Little Cayman is popular among nature enthusiasts for its diverse nature, marine life and water sports.

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

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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 24, 2022
France Ends All Covid Restrictions For Travelers

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

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

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

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

An Open France & Europe

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

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

Travel Is Easier, For The Most Part

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

Avoiding The Chaos

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

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

Travelers Love France

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

A Post Covid World

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

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

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August 2, 2022
U.S. Government Restores Flights To Cuba And Eases Restrictions
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Travelers must comply with requirements and understand all restrictions and measures before planning a trip to Cuba.

The Biden Administration published a press statement on Monday announcing that they will support the Cuban people by easing and removing restrictions imposed by the ex-president of the United States, Donald Trump, including travel measures to Cuba.

The US Department of State informed that commercial flights to different Cuban cities will be restored—previously U.S. airlines could only fly to Havana, the capital. Spokesman Ned Price said that the new measures “will make it easier for families to visit their relatives in Cuba and for authorized U.S. travelers to engage with the Cuban people, attend meetings, and conduct research.”

The recent changes to Cuba policy—applied as a strategy to support “Cubans’ aspirations for freedom” after recent anti-government protests— include reestablishing the family reunification program, allowing group travel for educational and professional purposes, increasing visa processing, lifting the family remittances cap previously limited to $1,000 per quarter per person, and supporting the private sector. These new measures attempt to ease the Cuban political and humanitarian crisis —which worsened during the pandemic.

Despite the removal of the COVID-19-related entry requirements in April, travel to Cuba is still complicated, and individual travel remains restricted for U.S. residents.

American citizens who want to visit the beautiful island must first understand the implications, restrictions, and all applicable rules, as well as stay up to date with news and future updates determined by the US government after this announcement.

What U.S. Travelers Must Know About Travel To Cuba

According to the official information shared by U.S. authorities, “travel to Cuba for tourist activities remains prohibited by statute”. However, American travelers have still been allowed to visit the island but under certain circumstances and by complying with all requirements.

Those interested in traveling to Cuba must understand that besides the traditional travel considerations all countries have, there are special restrictions stated by the U.S. Department of State—there is a large list of hotels and other touristic companies banned by the US government for acting on behalf of the Cuban military or intelligence—, and U.S. travelers must be approved under one of the 12 motives for visiting Cuba.

Requirements might change depending on the travel category, but these are the main demands and considerations when traveling to Cuba:
- Valid US Passport: with a validity of over 6 months after leaving Cuba.
- Cuba Tourist Card: It allows travelers to visit for 30 days, and can be bought online —costs $103 through the official site—, or directly from the airline —prices vary, from $50 to $100, depending on the carrier and the fees charged.
- Travel Insurance: Must cover unexpected medical expenses during the visit.
- Fill out Health and customs forms: Travelers must request a form online called D’Viajeros and fill it out before traveling to Cuba.
- Travelers can be required to show the return ticket and proof of sufficient funds as well as accommodation booked or established.
- Comply with Covid-19 related restrictions: covid testing and vaccination requirements are gone, but travelers can be selected for random testing upon arrival. If the PCR is positive, travelers could go under government quarantine.
- An approved “Travel License” to visit Cuba: A permit provided by the US Government for travel to Cuba under one of the 12 active categories for legal travel and meeting all criteria.
The Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued general licenses for 12 categories of travel:
- Family visits.
- Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations.
- Journalistic activity.
- Professional research and professional meetings.
- Educational activities (recently reactivated with the new measures).
- Religious activities.
- Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions.
- Support for the Cuban people (a popular category among US travelers).
- Humanitarian projects.
- Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes.
- Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials.
- Certain authorized export transactions.
Travelers will find more details on the official US Government Cuba Travel page, Cuba’s Easy Tourist Card Page, and the D’Viajeros site.

Read More:

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

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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 19, 2022