Tag: Travel

Central America Beats Europe To Become The Number One Destination For Solo Travel

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

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

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

Bookings For Solo Trips In Central America Are Soaring

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

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

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

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

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

What Makes Central America Such An Appealing Destination For Backpackers?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom Line

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

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

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

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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
How Europe Is Taking Action To Alleviate Travel Chaos

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Last Updated 7 mins ago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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 6, 2022
Americans Can Travel To These 186 Countries Visa-Free In 2022
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Last Updated 11 hours ago

Several countries now seem ready to move on from Covid after being stuck in a two-year loop of restrictions and social curbs. Consequently, U.S. citizens who had been confined to their own country due to entry bans and complex travel rules are finally regaining their travel privileges – at an incredibly fast pace.

While the U.S. passport had lost a considerable amount of power during the pandemic, as foreign countries targeted Americans as risky travelers due to the spread of Covid, it has seen a strong rebound, and it is now an even more powerful travel document than it was in 2019. Currently, 186 countries welcome Americans visa-free, or with visas on arrival.

This does not equal restriction-free entry, but it does mean U.S. passport holders are not subject to a lengthy application process, Consulate interviews, and high visa processing fees. When traveling to these destinations, all Americans generally need is a valid passport, and other health documentation that may still apply:

How Is Passport Power Measured?

A majority of people may not be aware of this interesting fact, but all passport holders are not granted the same freedom to travel. Different groups of countries have bilateral agreements in place, allowing each others’ citizens to visit their territories more freely. On the other hand, certain nationalities not covered by these agreements face restrictions.

According to the Henley & Partners Index, the U.S. passport is currently the sixth most powerful in the world, up one slot from 2019. In practical terms, Americans can travel to 186 countries without requesting a visa in advance from a Consulate, out of a total country count of 195 countries. Effectively, they can roam the world effortlessly.

The most powerful passports comprising the top 20 include Japan (number 1 with 192 visa-free destinations), all European Union citizens (Germany ranks the highest at number 2), the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other global leaders enjoying diplomatic prestige, like the UAE (15th) and Brazil (20th).

In comparison, Iran passport holders can only travel visa-free to 42 destinations, placing them as 102^nd on the list. Iraqi nationals also have their movement severely restricted in the world, ranking at an even lower 111. In 2022, those holding Iraqi citizenship can only visit 28 other countries simply by presenting their passport.

Where Can Americans Go Visa-Free?

Europe

With a few exceptions – most notably the unfriendly Russia and Belarus – Americans can travel to Europe with very few limitations. In fact, some European countries like France and the U.K. even offer Americans fast-track entry and the possibility to scan their way in, without being interviewed by a border agent when landing.

The European continent comprises 50 or 52 nations, depending on the classification of certain autonomous territories, and Americans do not need visas to travel to 48 of them. Namely, U.S. citizens can easily hop on a plane bound for the Swiss Alps, stroll the magical streets of Paris, or go on a month-long Italy foodie tour only with their passports.

Visa-Free Countries Americans Can Visit In Europe
- Albania
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Faroe Islands
- Finland
- France
- Georgia
- Germany
- Gibraltar
- Greece
- Greenland
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Kosovo
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Moldova
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- Vatican City
Turkey requires Americans to apply for an e-visa in advance.

The Caribbean

A nationwide favorite, The Caribbean grants visa-free entry to U.S. citizens, and unlike Europe, there are no exceptions on the list. From the crystal clear beaches of Barbados, to the historical forts and colorful colonial towns of the Dominican Republic, this vibrant region loves Americans as much as Americans love them, and desperately wants them back.

Henley & Partners has included 24 nations and territories in the Caribbean, exclusively islands, and unincorporated U.S. territories where Americans can enter without passports. For that reason, the list below does not include other popular Caribbean destinations like Mexico, Belize or Colombia, that are part of the mainland.

Visa-Free Countries Americans Can Visit In The Caribbean

It is worth noting Barbados still has Covid requirements in place. Other Caribbean islands may enforce other travel rules as well.

The Americas

From North to South, the Americas is a vast continent that for centuries has received an influx of migration from other territories. While North America’s History was shaped by the Anglo-Saxon, Germanic, Asian and African peoples, the continent’s South was envisioned as an extension of Southern Europe – mainly Spain and Portugal – in the New World.

It is possibly the most culturally unique continent in the world, due to its diverse demographics and amalgamation of influences. Luckily, U.S. citizens can visit 21 out of 22 American countries visa-free. The only country still requiring some type of visa is Bolivia, though it is generally issued upon arrival for a fee.

Visa-Free Countries Americans Can Visit In The Americas

Some major destinations in the Americas like Brazil have not yet fully reopened for tourism with no restrictions.

Asia

Although it has gained a reputation in recent years for being excessively strict with its Covid policies, Asia arguably remains the tourism playground of the world. Here, visitors are met with colossal temples, sprawling metropolises where anything could happen, some of the world’s most exquisite cuisine and surprisingly friendly locals.

Unfortunately, due to their hard stance on the pandemic, most Asian countries still have complex travel rules. Some like Japan even went as far as suspending visa-free entry for Americans, and all other visa-exempt foreign nationals. At present, the following Asian countries do not require U.S. passport holders to apply for an entry permit at a Consulate:

Visa-Free Countries Americans Can Visit In Asia

Cambodia, Laos, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are some examples of Asian countries requiring visas on arrival only.

Middle East

The Westernmost protrusion of the Asian continent, the geopolitical group called the Middle East has pretty lax, non-Covid entry requirements in place for American citizens. Out of 12 countries, U.S. citizens are granted unrestricted entry into seven, while the other five still allows Americans to obtain visas on arrival.

Much like Asia, the Middle East has retained some of its strictest pandemic-era policies. Nevertheless, the fact that Americans do not need entry visas to visit seven Middle Eastern destinations makes it much easier for them to extensively explore the region, provided that other Covid mandates are not in place.

Visa-Free Countries Americans Can Visit In The Middle East
- Armenia
- Iraq
- Israel
- Oman
- Palestinian Territory
- Qatar
- United Arab Emirates
Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia all require visas on arrival.

Oceania

It may not be one the easiest places to fly to, with some of its archipelagos being some of the most remote in the world, but a trip to the Oceania is definitely something all travelers, especially beach lovers, must experience at least once. Additionally, popular destinations in Oceania, such as Australia and New Zealand, are again open for American visitors.

In n Australia and New Zealand’s case, Americans must apply for a Travel Authorization in advance. This is not a visa, and applies to all nationalities that do not require visas to enter these countries, including Canadians, Brits and most Europeans. Applications are made online and the Authorization is usually issued in a matter of hours.

Visa-Free Countries Americans Can Visit In Oceania
- American Samoa
- Australia
- Cook Islands
- Fiji
- French Polynesia
- Guam
- Kiribati
- Marshall Islands
- Micronesia
- New Caledonia
- New Zealand
- Niue
- Northern Mariana Islands
- Palau Islands
- Vanuatu
The territories of Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Tuvalu offer visas on arrival for American travelers.

Africa

The continent of Africa may not be a massively popular vacation hotspot for Americans, but as we have detailed in our 5 Off The Beaten Path African Destinations article, it has a lot to offer and so much unacknowledged potential. North or South of the Sahara, visitors can take part in a number of activities, ranging from wildlife sightings to beach hopping.

African countries are also home to some of the world’s most important heritage sites, such as the El Jam Amphitheater in Tunisia, one of the largest and best preserved from Ancient Roman times, and the several millennia-old Moroccan cities of Fez and Marrakech – not to mention the History-packed nations of Egypt, Kenya and South Africa.

Visa-Free Countries Americans Can Visit In Africa
- Botswana
- Burkina Faso*
- Cape Verde Islands*
- Central African Republic
- Comoro Islands*
- Egypt*
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eswatini
- Ethiopia*
- Gabon*
- Guinea-Bissau*
- Lesotho
- Madagascar*
- Malawi*
- Mauritania*
- Mauritius
- Mayotte
- Morocco
- Mozambique*
- Namibia
- Reunion
- Rwanda*
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Senegal
- Seychelles*
- Sierra Leone*
- Somalia*
- South Africa
- St. Helena*
- Tanzania*
- The Gambia*
- Togo*
- Tunisia
- Uganda*
- Zambia*
- Zimbabwe*
*These countries offer visas on arrival

As you might have noticed, Africa is the continent Americans have the less freedom to travel, with complete visa-free entry allowed in only 14 out of 54 nations.

Bottom Line

When traveling abroad, Americans are advised to check all visa and entry requirements for their destination and ensure their passport expiry date complies with validity rules established by foreign countries. More information can be found on the U.S. Department of State, its Travel Advisories, or U.S. Embassies and representations in other nations.

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Americans Will No Longer Be Able To Enter The US With Expired Passports Starting In July

Americans Can Travel To These Destinations Without A Passport

U.S. State Department Is Warning Travelers About Long Wait Times For Passports

CDC Increases Covid Health Risk To High For One Of The Most Popular Destinations For Americans

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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 1, 2022
These Summer Travel Deals Will Give You Luxury Hotel Stays For Less

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With the Summer vacation season officially in swing, it is getting more difficult to find luxury hotels for affordable prices. With rising airfare costs, hotel rate increases, and gasoline prices soaring, it may seem impossible to find hotels offering good deals. However, below is a list of luxury hotels offering unique packages to help vacationers book a fantastic getaway without breaking the bank.

Fly & Stay at Resorts World Bimini

Image Courtesy Of: Resorts World Bimini

A brand-new private beach, world-class casino, and stylish Hilton hotel await those visiting Resorts World Bimini. As the closest Bahamian island to the U.S., guests can enjoy a unique 25-minute seaplane ride from Fort Lauderdale as part of the Resort’s Fly & Stay package they are offering for the summer. Starting at $499 per person for round trip flights and 2-3 nights of accommodation, these are the lowest rates ever offered by Resorts World Bimini. Visit Resorts World Bimini to book soon, as summer prices are only valid for visits through the end of July.

Playa Largo Resort & Spa

Image Courtesy Of: Playa Largo Resort & Spa

There’s no need to go all the way to Key West to have an incredible experience in the Florida Keys, and Playa Largo Resort & Spa is making it more affordable. The resort is offering guests a $100 gift card to help alleviate the cost of gas as it participates in Marriott’s “Great American Road Trip” initiative. Just an hour south of Miami by car, the resort boasts a waterfront zero-entry pool, a private beach, and a 15-slip marina for the fishers and watersport enthusiasts of the group. Use promo code TRS to book the Great American Road Trip Offer at www.playalargo.com.

W Fort Lauderdale

Image Courtesy Of: W Fort Lauderdale

Liven up your vacation with a stay at W Fort Lauderdale, located right on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Spend a day in the sun at the hotel’s popular WET East, an Instagram-worthy pool with decorative tiling, luxurious daybeds, and live DJs. For much-needed relaxation after a day of fun, head to AWAY spa for a massage before getting ready for a night out. Take advantage of the biggest savings by using the “Linger Longer, Save More” offer for stays Sundays through Thursdays. Use code D3Q to save up to 25% off per night on all room types when booking at W Fort Lauderdale. Be sure to book by June 30th to enjoy summer savings.

Dutch Caribbean Island of Curaçao

Image Courtesy Of: Curaçao Tourist Board

The Island of Curaçao is ready to welcome the world back with open arms after years of the pandemic. Crystal clear blue waters and over 70 cove-like beaches await travelers heading to this inviting destination. For those who enjoy exploring what lies below, there are over 65 unique diving sites. For up to 40% off at hotels including Dreams Curaçao, Renaissance Curaçao, and Avila Beach Hotel, head to the Curaçao Tourist Board’s brand-new digital deals portal.

Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis

Image Courtesy Of: Hyatt Centric Beale Street Memphis

Blues, barbeque, and amazing views are in store for guests of the Hyatt Centric Beale Street. Sitting on one of America’s most iconic streets, Beale Street is known as the home of the blues and is the perfect place to call home during a visit to Memphis. Travelers can save this summer by taking advantage of the Summer Beale Deal, which takes 50% off their Sunday night stay. Guests must stay three nights in a row to use this deal, with one of those nights falling on a Sunday. Use the code SUMBD to book this deal at Hyatt Centric Memphis through August 22nd, 2022.

Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club

Image Courtesy Of: Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club

For an active vacation in a beautiful setting, travelers will love the award-winning Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club. Activities include the only Nicklaus Design golf course on Cape Cod, nine tennis courts, six pickleball courts, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, access to 26 miles of trails for biking and hiking, five pools, and even beach bonfires to cap the day off with a beautiful sunset in the sand. The property is offering a Summer Splash package for 10% savings on room rates, which includes two adult tickets. To take advantage of this deal, head to Ocean Edge Resort And Golf Club

Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa

Image Courtesy Of: Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa

Travelers looking for a more tropical vacation will enjoy the newest luxury hotel in Cabo, Corazon Cabo Resort & Spa. Views of the iconic Arc of Cabo San Lucas can be enjoyed at Rooftop 360, the highest rooftop terrace in the city. Guests can enjoy Corazón Beach Club, the largest beach club on Medano beach, two oceanfront infinity pools, live music, luxurious spa offerings, and much more. The resort is offering 25% off beachfront luxury accommodations when you stay for four or more nights as part of its Stay & Play Longer package. Bookings can be made at Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa.

Southernmost Beach Resort

Image Courtesy Of: Southernmost Beach Resort

For a taste of the Caribbean in a domestic location, travelers can head to Southernmost Beach Resort in Key West. With three pools, a tanning pier, a private beach, three bars, and a restaurant on-site, guests will have plenty to look forward to on arrival. Located on Duval Street, Southernmost Beach Resort is the perfect base camp for exploring all Key West offers. Book the resort’s “Stay Longer and Save More” package for up to 20% off when staying three nights. Bookings can be made at Southernmost Beach Resort with no code required.

Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale

Image Courtesy Of: Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale

Located in the heart of the entertainment district in Fort Lauderdale’s tallest skyscraper, Hyatt Centric Las Olas takes inspiration from the area’s yachting culture and waterfront location. Everything from the architecture to the lighting speaks to life on the water. A pool with incredible views of the city, a secret speakeasy, and direct access to the downtown scene are just some of the incredible amenities guests can look forward to. Stay two nights and get the third for 50% off when booking June 1st – July 31st and staying July 1-Sept 30 at Hyatt Centric Las Olas Fort Lauderdale.

Thompson Buckhead

Image Courtesy Of: Chelsea Patricia Photo & Thompson Buckhead

For the ultimate shopping and dining getaway, travelers can head to Thompson Buckhead, which is in one of Atlanta’s most upscale neighborhoods. Catch some sun on the rooftop pool before heading out for a night on the town. The hotel’s “Sip & Sun” summer offer promises relaxation as you forget about the bustling city below and includes deluxe accommodations and a cabana rental with a chilled bottle of champagne. Use promo code “SIPSUN” to book your stay at Thompson Buckhead.

AC Hotel Columbus Downtown

Image Courtesy Of: @Ginny_Corgi & AC Hotel Columbus Downtown

For travelers who can’t stand to leave pets behind while vacationing, AC Hotel Columbus Downtown is offering the “Bring Your Fur Baby” pet package. When entering the room, your fur-baby will find a plush dog bed to snooze on, two doggie bowls, and Ohio-shaped pup cookies from the local Nom Nom Nom Bakery. For booking, head to AC Hotel Columbus Downtown

Thompson Zihuatanejo, Mexico

Image Courtesy Of: Thompson Zihuatanejo, Mexico

Zihuatanejo has long been a hideaway for creatives like Andy Warhol and Betsy Johnson and is the ultimate escape for those looking to get away from it all. Thompson Zihuatanejo is offering the ‘Redemption Package’ this summer. As part of the package, guests will be greeted with tequila and pozole upon arrival, take a cooking class on the beach with Chef Javier Cerrillo, enjoy a private yacht trip to the iconic La Saladita beach, and a relax during a session at the resort’s spa for two. Guests will find daily wellness treasures awaiting them in their suite, which includes its own private plunge pool and private terrace. For booking, visit Thompson Zihuatanejo

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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 29, 2022
Americans Can Travel To These Destinations Without A Passport
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With Covid and travel restrictions starting to feel more like yesterday’s news, travel is finally picking up after two years of being placed on an indefinite hold. Whether it’s domestic or international tourism, demand is back to pre-pandemic levels, and millions of Americans are eager to jet off to nearest paradise destination.

Even as the world reopens, travelling internationally still comes with its own set of non-Covid related rules tourists must observe. Those can range from holding a passport that will not expire within the next six months, to presenting proof of having enough financial resources and insurance covering the whole duration of the trip.

These are some of the most common requirements imposed on travelers by foreign countries, with the aim of strengthening their external borders and ensuring that those applying for an entry permit are genuine visitors. Naturally, U.S. citizens remain subject to these same entry rules, which can vary quite a lot depending on the destination.

Luckily, there are a handful of places where U.S. citizens enjoy (far) greater privileges, including being allowed to travel without a passport – and no, we are not about to remind you that Hawaii and Alaska, albeit remote, are still states within the Federation. Surprisingly, holding an ID card other than a passport can still get you much farther away.

More specifically, there are currently 7 destinations Americans can access just as smoothly as entering their own country, with no excessive bureaucracy! Ready to find out how far your status as a U.S. citizen can take you? Here’s the complete list of countries and territories accepting Americans, regardless of being passport holders:

International Destinations

Mexico
- Certain types of ID are valid for land crossings
- Air arrivals must still carry a passport at all times
A little known-fact among travelers, Mexico in fact allows U.S. citizens to enter the country without holding a passport, as long as they travel via land. In order to be eligible, Americans must hold either a passport card, a Trusted Traveler ID (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST cards), or a state-issued Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL).

Similarly to a passport, a U.S. passport card includes its holder’s name, photo, birthplace and date of birth, a unique identification number for the purpose of verification, and an issue and expiry dates. The big difference is they are much more affordable than regular passports, costing only $30 to apply instead of $130.

Trusted Traveler Cards, on the other hand, are documents issued to ‘low-risk travelers’ for expedited clearance when traveling between the United States and Mexico. Alternatively, those residing in Michigan, Vermont, Minnesota, New York and Washington can apply for an EDL in the unlikely event they are driving all the way South to Mexico.

For those in the Southern U.S. hitting the road this summer, there are innumerable destinations in Mexico in close proximity to the border. One of our favorites include the seaside retreat of Puerto Peñasco, a city located in the state of Sonora, on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, and only a short three and a half hour drive away from Phoenix, Arizona.

Other border cities include the vibrant Tijuana, 20 miles south of San Diego, and Ciudad Juárez, part of a trans-border agglomeration with the Texan city of El Paso, though no U.S. state bordering Mexico issues EDLs as of now. Although Mexico allows Americans to enter with other forms of ID via land, passports are still the only valid document for air arrivals.

Canada
- Several ID cards are accepted for both land and air arrivals
- 180-day entry permit still applies to U.S. citizens
Sharing the longest international border in the world, the United States and Canada have multiple bilateral agreements that allow facilitated travel for each others’ citizens. Unlike all other foreigners, who either need a tourist visa or a Travel Authorization to enter Canada, Americans can visit the country simply by presenting a valid ID card.

This includes a passport, a passport card, or a NEXUS card: these can all be used on any transportation mode, such as flights, cars, ferries, trains, and buses. Conversely, Enhanced Driver’s Licenses or FAST cards are only accepted at land and sea borders. Americans are reminded they can stay in Canada for up to 180 days, per entry, regardless of the ID they use.

Countless destinations in Canada are located close to the U.S. border, or a stone’s throw away from a number U.S. cities, making cross-border trips incredibly easy. A prime example of that is the Niagara Falls, a world wonder shared by both countries and sandwiched between Buffalo, in the state of New York, and Niagara Falls (the city), in Ontario.

Spending a long weekend in the metropolitan Vancouver, or any of the quaint, historical towns that are part of Canada’s British Columbia province, is also quite feasible for residents of the U.S. state of Washington, while New England, especially the states of Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine enjoy direct road links to the French-English bilingual Quebec.

Other U.S. Territories
- National U.S. issued ID cards are valid documentation in all transportation modes
- Starting May 3, 2023, REAL ID will be required
Beyond the mainland, the U.S. has a collection of unincorporated territories with their own distinct culture and national identities. Despite not being considered U.S. states, these overseas areas are an integral part of the country, meaning all Americans traveling from the continent are welcome – with or without passports.

When traveling from the U.S. to any of these territories, Americans are only required to present a valid ID. Starting May 3, 2023, all air travelers 18 years of age and older will be required to present REAL ID for flying within the U.S., such as a verifiable, REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, a state-issued EDL, or ordinary U.S. passports.

The U.S. territories accepting national ID cards for travel are:

Puerto Rico

One of America’s favorite Caribbean destinations, Puerto Rico has recently dropped all Covid vaccination and testing requirements for mainland arrivals, allowing domestic visitors to enter restriction-free. Additionally, as it is an unincorporated U.S. territory, the island does not expect mainland Americans to carry a passport for identification.

Several nonstop flights to Puerto Rico are available from every major U.S. city, including Austin, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Forth Worth, Miami, New York and Philadelphia, just to name a few. Some of the most famous landmarks include the colorful Old Town In San Juan and Spanish colonial fortresses.

U.S. Virgin Islands
- St John
- St. Croix
- St. Thomas
Like Puerto Rico, the triad of Caribbean islands that make up the U.S. Virgin Islands archipelago are open with no health requirements. Luckily, there are direct flights to St. John, St. Croix, and St. Thomas from cities like New York, Miami, Washington, Chicago, Orlando, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Houston, Dallas, Baltimore (and many more).

Right now, all that Americans need when traveling to U.S. Virgin Islands is a driver’s license, or other state photo identity cards issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, when not in possession of other travel documents. From May 2023, REAL ID requirements will start applying to air passengers visiting the archipelago.

Guam

Ever heard of the small, picturesque Micronesian island that is Guam? It may be more challenging, and somewhat more expensive to visit than other destinations on this list, but it is yet another tropical hotspot allowing U.S. citizens to visit completely visa-free, and without requesting new passports in advance: national IDs are more than enough.

A U.S. overseas territory, it is home to some of the nation’s most beautiful beaches, incredibly well-preserved Spanish-era monuments and other sites of historical relevance, such as Asan Beach, where crucial World War II (WWII) events took place. Direct flights are only available from Honolulu with United Airlines.

Northern Mariana Islands

A group of 14 islands in total, out of which only 3 are developed tourist destinations (Saipan, Tinian and Rota), the U.S. Northern Mariana territory boasts sandy beaches, clear waters that are perfect for swimming, numerous dive sites and wildlife sanctuaries – a beautiful setting that hosted the Battle of Saipan, one of the bloodiest in WWII.

The only way for Americans to reach the Northern Marianas traveling on a verifiable driver’s license or other equivalent ID is taking a flight from the mainland U.S. to Honolulu, then onward to Guam, and finally to Saipan International Airport, serving the island of Saipan. All other flights leave from mainland China, Hong Kong, or South Korea.

American Samoa
- Tutuila
- Aunuʻu
- Ofu
- Olosega
- Taʻū
- Swains (Uninhabited)
- Rose Atoll (Uninhabited)
The American Samoa is a collective of seven South Pacific Islands graced with volcano views, tropical moist forests, and immaculate beaches where overtourism does not seem to be a concern. Pago Pago, the regional capital, provides the American Samoa’s only access to the outside world, with direct flights to and from Honolulu with Hawaiian Airlines.

As a U.S. unincorporated territory, these islands rely heavily on domestic tourism, with a majority of attractions centered in the capital and surrounding villages. From Pago Pago International Airport, visitors can fly to Fiti’uta, in the island of Taʻū, and Ofu, where secluded beaches and impressive nature can be found.

Bottom Line

As Guam only has domestic connections to other mainland U.S. cities via Hawaii, and domestic flights to the Northern Mariana Islands, in turn, only depart via Guam, U.S. citizens flying without their passports must book tickets that do not include airside transit, or stopovers, in any territories that are not within the United States.

For more information on travel documentation, please visit the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website, where official guidance is available. When going abroad, Americans are advised to carry valid passports, even when other agreements are in place, as it is the most widely recognized document for international travel.

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June 25, 2022
Uber Will Allow Travelers To Book An Airport Ride 30 Days In Advance Amid Summer Travel Chaos
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Whether it’s domestic or international, travel has underwent significant changes, even some permanent ones. Covid may no longer be a huge concern at a majority of destinations worldwide, but its impact is still being felt across different sectors of the industry, where staff shortages are contributing to a summer of travel chaos.

Flight disruption is now becoming the rule rather than the exception, and the huge influx of passengers is resulting in excessively long delays at some major international hubs. In a bid to ease the traffic into and out of airports and reduce wait times, Uber will now allow travelers to pre-book their transfer up to 30 days in advance in several destinations.

If you’re planning on traveling in the next few weeks, this is your chance to secure a ride to the airport before most drivers are unavailable:

Airport Transfers Are About To Become A Lot Smoother

Uber is paving the way among same-category service providers in allowing customers to schedule a ride this far ahead, and they have a very good reason for doing that. This year, passenger traffic at U.S. airports has more than doubled compared to 2021, according to data provided by the Transport Security Association (TSA), and it could increase even further.

Now that the U.S. has finally lifted its much-criticized pre-departure testing regime, more than half of Americans who had been patiently waiting for rules to be eased so they could travel will be taking to the skies in a heartbeat. While this is good news in terms of tourism recovery, we have seen how the situation can turn anarchic when demand outpaces supply.

We all have had to stand in line for endless minutes until the next taxi or Uber was available, sore-headed and all, after a long flight journey, and it’s never a pleasant experience. Unfortunately, wait times for airport transfers are set to increase once summer is in full swing – they’re already long, and the season is only starting.

Luckily, with the new Uber Reserve option, customers can now book trips up to a month in advance to and from several airports within the U.S. and globally. Though it was launched last year in select locations, the update has now been extended to more than 55 hubs, both domestic and international, with the latest adds being the following:

Domestic*
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
International
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) – Milan, Italy
- Milan Linate Airport (LIN) and Malpensa Airport (MXP) – Milan, Italy
- Giovan Battista Pastine International Airport (CIA) – Rome, Italy
- Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport (FCO) – Rome, Italy
- Nice Cote d’Azur Airport (NCE) – Nice, France
- Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) – Paris, France
- Cape Town International Airport (CPT) – Cape Town, South Africa
- O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) – Johannesburg, South Africa
- Lanseria International Airport (HLA) – Johannesburg, South Africa
There are, in total, 39 airports in the US where Uber Reserve is available. Customers are advised to check their Uber app to confirm whether the feature has been rolled out in the area

What Are Some Of The New Features?

Besides allowing early bookings, Uber Reserve gives travelers total peace of mind, as they have a guarantee their car will be waiting for them as soon as they leave the terminal. How so? The driver is required by Uber to wait up to 60 minutes – with no extra charge – just in case there are delays. Looking at the current state of things, we really couldn’t have asked for better.

There are other pretty cool features that might appeal even to those who are not huge Uber enthusiasts: when a flight is delayed for longer than 60 minutes, the Uber’s flight tracking integrated system will automatically adjust the expected arrival time, based on flight information, to ensure the driver is still there on time.

Whenever possible, drivers will also be assigned before pickup, as per customer request. On top of that, passengers can select drivers out of their ‘Favorites’ list on any Reserve ride. Lastly, curbside pickup and pickup at restaurants in some airports is now permitted, making it easier for passengers to find their car without having to walk to designated areas.

How Far In Advance Should I Request My Uber?

As air traffic increases and all travel lanes become heavily congested, it may be wise to schedule your Uber in advance to ensure you will be at the airport in time for your flight. Most importantly, pre-booking a transfer at your destination is key, unless you’re fine with waiting for the next available driver to come and pick you up… Along with every other person on your plane.

Airports like Cancun International can be incredibly busy during peak hours, when hundreds of thousands of passengers are either transiting air-side or rushing straight to the airport’s front doors to get the first taxi, and it’s sometimes impossible to find an ride in only a few minutes. Like we mentioned previously, travel demand is only going up.

Scheduling a Uber ride or pre-booking a private transfer, in Cancun’s case, can save you a lot of the hassle of trying to find a reliable driver when you’re just desperate to get to your hotel as quickly as possible. Fortunately, Uber Reserve is available in countless locations Stateside, and you can read more about further enlargements clicking here.

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June 20, 2022
Travel App Hopper Launches ‘Leave Hotel For Any Reason Option’

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Last Updated 6 hours ago

Have you ever booked a hotel with high hopes, only to have them crushed on arrival? Popular travel app, Hopper, announced last week that they have added new products to their service, including a Leave For Any Reason option. The new option allows travelers to cancel their hotel booking for any reason at or after the check-in process. Travelers will then be able to secure a booking with a new hotel with all associated costs paid for by Hopper, provided the new hotel has the same star rating as the original.

As the past few years have shown, nothing is certain. The added flexibility of being able to change travel plans has proven to be a valuable option. Hopper has taken notice and has added more services than just the new Leave for Any Reason option. A service previously only available for flight bookings, Cancel for Any Reason, has been added as an option when booking hotel rooms. This offers flexibility, though not as much as the Leave for Any Reason option. Cancel for Any Reason allows travelers to cancel their booking anytime before check-in for a 100% refund.

Hopper has also added a product for rental cars that was previously only available on flights and hotel bookings, Price Freeze for Cars. This option allows travelers to lock in a car rental price for 21 days, giving travelers more time to decide. Hopper will pay up to $100 towards the new rate if the price goes up. Conversely, travelers will be able to pay at a lower rate if the price goes down. As car rental prices continue to climb, this could be an option that more travelers take advantage of this year.

For many travelers, flexibility is king. The new offerings from Hopper fit the bill for those that require more wiggle room in their travel plans. Perhaps the most interesting new option, and certainly the one that offers the most flexibility, is the Leave For Any Reason option. In order for the option to be viable for Hopper, it has to be priced low enough that travelers will purchase it and high enough to cover the costs of the travelers that end up using it. To get an idea of what kind of fees travelers can expect, a sample booking was completed at the Rio All-Suite Hotel in Las Vegas for July 4^th through the 8th.

Image Courtesy Of: Rio All-Suite Hotel

All selections were made with the flexible traveler in mind, including the option to pay later. Trip insurance, Cancel For Any Reason, and Leave For Any Reason were all selected as options for the booking. With a room rate of $33 per night, the Cancel For Any Reason fee was $60, the Leave For Any Reason fee was an additional $36, and the trip insurance was $16.50.

In total, the additional fees for maximum flexibility added $112.50 to the booking. This brought the price of the entire booking to $442.21. This may seem a steep price to pay when expecting a trip to go according to plan, but many travelers are happy to pay the extra cost for peace of mind.

With the Leave For Any Reason option, Hopper means it. Reasons as small as wishing the room had a better view and noticing that the room isn’t clean enough were cited by Hopper as acceptable uses of the new option. Time will tell if they stick to this promise, but for now, it seems like a highly flexible cancellation service that truly does cover any reason.

With more and more countries opening up and dropping Covid-era rules, including the United States, travel plans are less likely to be affected by Covid. However, travel disruptions from staffing shortages and increased travel demand are factors that can still affect upcoming travel. Those who are worried about disruptions when making a booking may find that Hopper’s new products are worth the extra cost.

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June 16, 2022
Unvaccinated Canadians Can Now Travel Within And Out Of Canada

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It’s been a good past couple of days for Canadians who are eager to travel this summer. Last week the country suspended random COVID testing at all its airports for the rest of June to ease the long waiting times that travelers have been facing.

Now there is even more good news for travelers in Canada.

Unvaccinated Canadians will no longer face domestic vaccine mandates

The federal government will suspend its COVID-19 vaccine mandate, Ottawa announced on Tuesday, allowing unvaccinated Canadians to travel domestically by air and train, and internationally by air as of June 20.

It will also lift its vaccine mandate for federal employees, including the RCMP and federal regulated transportation sector workers.

Ottawa first introduced a vaccine mandate on Oct. 30 last year. The mandate required that all passengers over the age of 12 departing from a Canadian airport be fully vaccinated in order to travel.

It also applied to rail passengers on Via Rail and Rocky Mountaineer trains, as well as marine passengers on non-essential vessels such as cruise ships.

Cruise ships will have to wait a little longer.

While air and rail travelers will no longer need to be vaccinated in order to travel, the mandate will still remain in place for cruise ship passengers and employees. The mask requirement for planes and trains will also remain in place.

Canada’s airports have been facing catastrophic wait times.

If you’ve been to an airport in Canada recently, there’s a good chance you’ve dealt with more than your average level of chaos. Some of the issues include hours-long security lineups, delayed or cancelled flights, passengers stuck on the tarmac and major congestion at border security.

Canada’s outdated rules are causing unacceptable delays at the country’s major airports, keeping international visitors away and infuriating domestic travelers.

Pressure for Ottawa to drop its vaccine mandates has been ramping up in recent weeks, as delays continue to plague the country’s major airports, particularly at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport.

Travel industry groups have blamed federal public health measures and mandates for slowdowns at airport customs that have contributed to long waits for passengers and forced flight delays and cancellations and have put increasing pressure on the government to do away with them.

The Covid situation in Canada right now.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has reported a steadily declining number of COVID-19 cases, though provinces are no longer providing COVID-19 molecular tests for the general public and federal reporting has become less regimented.

While more than 89 per cent of Canadians over the age of 12 have at least two doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine, only about 55 per cent of them have received a booster shot.

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June 15, 2022
Canada Suspends Random Covid Testing On Arrival To Reduce Travel Disruption

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After the United States dropped the testing requirement for vaccinated travelers, including returning American citizens, Canada has now decided to suspend random tests on arrival temporarily as airports struggle with rising travel demand. Starting June 11, only unvaccinated passengers will be subject to testing landing in Canada.

The move comes as numerous airports around the globe battle staffing constraints and an overwhelming demand. Although this is surely a step in the right direction, this is by no means a definitive decision. The Canadian Government has reiterated the relaxation has a validity date and, soon enough, random testing will be reinstated:

Vaccinated Travelers Can Avoid Random Tests Until June 30

From June 11 to June 30, incoming vaccinated travelers will no longer be selected for random testing landing at one of Canada’s main points of entry. Even though the country has scrapped pre-departure testing for the vaccinated a while ago, it had continued to enforce the highly criticized post-arrival random testing measure.

This means that, over the next three weeks, only the unvaccinated will still be required by law to undergo testing, if selected by health authorities, when landing in Canada. On July 1, the requirement for the vaccinated to undergo random testing will return, albeit with significant changes: as stated by the Government, all testing will be moved ‘off-site’.

In other words, travelers will not be required to provide a sample at the airport itself, being moved instead to a different location in a bid to ease the burden placed on understaffed airports. As of now, the Canadian Government has not yet specified how the changes will be effected, or exactly what ‘off-site’ means.

From our understanding, ‘lucky’ travelers could now be conducted to testing facilities outside the airport’s arrival halls, seeing that testing sites that have been set up in their vicinity will be dismantled in the upcoming weeks. This is yet to be confirmed by Canada, and we will keep our readers updated once more information is provided.

Airports In Canada Call For Measure To Be Fully Scrapped

For weeks, airports in Canada have urged the Government to further ease its strict Covid screening at the country’s international hubs as unavoidable cancellations are already set to have a devastating effect on passengers this summer. Enforcing random testing on-arrival would only worsen disruption and prompt further delays.

The Greater Toronto Airport authority (GTAA) has been calling for the program to be suspended for weeks, acknowledging that, in its current state, the hub cannot manage both increasing passenger numbers and enforce the country’s Covid policies. As GTAA states, arrival figures will increase by ‘some 50 per cent’ during summer.

In a recent interview with CBC, Tourism Minister Randy Boissonnault revealed the Government decided to grant the three-week pause in order to help reduce disruption at airports. According to him, the suspension will give the government enough time to set up off-site testing booths away from the increasingly busy arrival halls:

‘It’s going to make sure that the airports flow more quickly’, added Boissonault. He acknowledged that airports are not designed to house mini health care centers and that the revised policy will help staff and ease congestion. Although the measure will be reintroduced shortly, for the Minister, ‘this is a good step in the right direction’.

Transport Minister Omar Alghabra also conceded the Canadian Government ‘recognizes the impact that significant wait times at some Canadian airports are having on travelers’. Alghabra confirmed authorities will continue working with airports, airlines, and other key sectors of the travel industry to find long-term solutions.

Although the suspension will help airports in Canada, and the subsequent translocation of testing centers ensure airport staff can carry out their work uninterrupted, frustration among passengers may continue to grow, as random testing is set to return next month. As the Government has already confirmed, the vaccinated will not continue being exempt from July 1.

Government Believes Policy Is Necessary Despite Experts’ Recommendations

Addressing the public’s animosity towards the measure and defending the measure, Marie-France Proulx, a spokesperson for the Health Ministry, has asserted that randomized testing is ‘the only way’ to detect new variants being imported into Canada, especially now that provinces and territories are no longer doing massive testing.

Randomized testing is not the only concern shared by those traveling to Canada in the post-Covid world. Recently, the Government has come under fire for proposing a new law enabling border officers to search the phones of those arriving in Canada, further alienating restriction-wary travelers that are favoring countries with no strict policies in place.

Within the Parliament, Opposition Conservatives have pressed the Trudeau Administration to lift all remaining Covid restrictions for those visiting Canada, including the vaccination requirement and randomized testing. The latter’s three-week pause may be seen as a positive development, but it is still a small victory for opponents.

As health experts themselves call for randomized testing to be scrapped for good, we may see the Canadian Government reconsidering its tough stance. Many see the policy as ‘unnecessary’ now that there is ‘widespread natural and vaccine-induced immunity’, and one that only increases bureaucracy at airports.

In sum, if you’re vaccinated, you have until June 30 to enter Canada without fear of being picked out for testing.

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June 13, 2022
Canada Issues New Travel Advisory Due To Monkeypox
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As monkeypox spreads globally, the Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for Canadians traveling overseas. The new Level 2 travel advisory suggests Canadians should practice enhanced health precautions following the emergence of monkeypox.

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

The Full Details Of The Level 2 Travel Advisory

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

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

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

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

What Is Monkeypox?

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

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

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

Have Other Countries Issued Travel Advisories?

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

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

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June 9, 2022