Passengers who fly Southwest Airlines are in for much more freedom when their trip doesn’t work out as planned. Travelers who need to change or cancel their plans with Southwest have not had to pay any fees to do so for some time. Even travelers who book a non-refundable fare can cancel; they will simply receive a flight credit rather than a refund. The only downside to this was that the flight credit expired after one year, until now. Southwest announced on Thursday that there would no longer be an expiration date for customer’s flight credits, effective immediately.
Flexibility Is King
For Southwest, flexibility for their customers has always been a priority. For years the company has set itself apart by allowing customers to check two bags with no additional fees and allowing passengers to change or cancel their flight up to ten minutes before departure. “Flight credits don’t expire aligns with the boldness of a philosophy to give our Customers definitive simplicity and ease in travel, just like Bags fly free, just like No change fees, just like Points don’t expire—they’re a first-in-our-industry combination of differentiators that only Southwest offers,” said Southwest CEO Bob Jordan in a press release.
Flight Credits Don’t Expire
The new ‘flight credits don’t expire’ policy was implemented as soon as it was announced. Any flight credits that were not already expired by July 28th, 2022, will be included in the new policy. The airline is going to work on its technology systems later this year in order to remove expiration dates from flight credits completely. Until then, customers will see an expiration date of December 31st, 2040, on their flight credits.
Why The Change?
Southwest has been working on overhauling the passenger experience since its announcement in May that it would be spending two billion dollars on a transformation plan. In May, the airline promised to deliver on several fronts, including:
Adding fast Wi-Fi to every plane
Adding charging capabilities to every seat
Making overhead bins larger
Introduce their new Wanna Get Away Plus fare category
Enhance onboard entertainment
Add new self-service options for customers to use
According to Senior Vice President Ryan Green, the airline never intended to stop there. The company says they are constantly looking for ways to improve on items customers care about most. The flexibility to cancel up to ten minutes before a flight and receive a credit that will never expire is undoubtedly high on the list for most travelers. Life happens, and sometimes things don’t go according to plan. Being able to cancel a trip without worrying about monetary loss or expiring credits is a huge stress reliever for many.
Nearly 50% of travelers said that flexible cancellation and rebooking policies were a significant factor in their travel plans for 2022, and Southwest seems to have heard them loud and clear. Southwest is now the only major airline in the United States that offers flight credits with no expiration date. If Covid has proven anything, it’s that travelers should always be prepared for plans to change. This newest policy update from Southwest ensures that travelers will have no problems changing plans for any reason.
What It Means For Travelers
To sum it up in one word, flexibility. Southwest was already one of the most flexible airlines in the U.S. to fly when it came to rebooking or canceling, and now they might be the most flexible. Airbnb host canceled on you at the last minute? Now you can cancel your flight without ever losing your credit. Another benefit to credits that never expire is that travelers looking for the best deal can now virtually guarantee they will get it. Notice that the fare went down in price substantially for an upcoming trip? Now you can cancel your flight, rebook at the lower rate, and save your credit indefinitely for a future trip.
Southwest has certainly been listening to customers, and its latest move to get rid of flight credit expirations is just one example of how it aims to continue adding flexibility and simplicity to its business model. Travelers can rest assured knowing their bookings with Southwest offer the best flexibility of any major U.S. airline.
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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
How The Netherlands Shift Might Affect Your Travel Around Europe
The Netherlands is set to transform its air travel sector in the wake of the announcement that Schiphol Airport will be operating under a cap from 2023. The decision is multi-faceted, attempting to tackle both climate change and a shift from the airport’s reputation as a transfer hub.
Schiphol Airport, the Netherlands’ busiest airport and one of the busiest in the world, announced last month that it would begin capping the number of flights flying to and from the hub. The figure released suggested that no more than 440 thousand flights a year would be allowed to leave from Schiphol.
The move is mainly geared at climate change, and the figure corresponds to an approximate twenty percent decrease in the airport’s pre-pandemic figures and is a first for any major airport in the world. The decision was met with celebration from environmental activists but frustration by several airlines and other airports who will now feel pressure to react in a similar manner.
In a direct manner, passengers may be affected by sudden rising costs as the supply decreases, but the decision is also part of a broader change in direction from the Dutch Government.
Schiphol is known for its calculated role as a connection hub airport. Millions of passengers move through the airport every year, attracted by comparatively low costs and high connectivity. Recent figures place it as one of the most connected airports in the world.
Many travelers purposely reroute their travel through Schiphol instead of taking direct flights from their home airports or routing through other major airports that are often more expensive. The UK, in particular, uses the Dutch hub as a cheap alternative to Heathrow, owing to its close proximity to the country. A tourist traveling from a city like Newcastle in the north of England would see far more value in a cheap flight across the channel than dealing with Heathrow.
KLM, the largest airline presence at Schiphol, says this position is now untenable in light of the caps.
It appears the move was a government-wide plan, as country officials have already raised the flight tax for the Netherlands. Schiphol took similar measures and increased taxes for the airlines themselves, putting more pressure on airlines to avoid cheap routes and maximize the type of flight they offer. One member of parliament said of the taxes, “Through these measures, you know that Schiphol will no longer be a cheap island.”
How quickly changes are likely to be seen is hard to tell, but regular travelers who often utilize Schiphol should anticipate a shift in its connectivity, especially for cheaper short-distance flights around Western Europe or for longer-haul flights connecting through the airport.
The airport is also currently operating under a separate, unrelated cap owing to the travel chaos seen across the world. Again, Schiphol’s hub reputation has made the problems more acute, with massive lines, significant delays, and baggage problems forcing the airport’s hand. American Airlines even made the decision to stop operating in Schiphol Airport until the problems lessen.
It joins Heathrow, Gatwick, and Frankfurt in capping summer flights in an attempt to alleviate the pressure on handling staff while they attempt to fill positions vacated during the pandemic. The cap being brought in 2023 will be a larger one.
Although Schiphol is the first major airport to change its policies so drastically for environmental reasons, changes are being seen across the industry. In 2021, France took the bold step of banning short-haul flights if a bus or train was available as an alternative.
Under the rule, any flight where someone could get a bus or train to the destination in two and a half hours or under was no longer allowed. Other countries are mulling similar rules but will most likely wait until the industry has settled into a more typical routine once again.
Routes between 3000km and 5000km are generally viewed as the best for the environment.
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According to a survey by Bankrate, only 2 out of 10 travelers were able to complete their trips without any travel problems during the month of June. As summer has unfolded, there’s been turmoil in the aviation sector as airports and airlines have struggled with short-staffing. A significant increase in travel demand has made it difficult for the small amount of staff available to keep up. And to add fuel to the fire, inflation is higher than ever, making life more difficult for all travelers and airlines alike. As a result, about 80% of travelers surveyed reported some type of travel-related issue during their trips during the month of June.
Most Common Travel-Related Issues
57% of travelers reported higher costs than they were used to
26% reported difficulty finding availability with accommodations and flights
29% reported long wait times
27% reported unsatisfactory customer service
14% reported the loss of money due to canceled or disrupted plans
So What Can You Do?
While there is no way to 100% guarantee that you will complete your trip without disruption, there are ways to mitigate your risk. Before embarking on any travel, it is essential to know your passenger rights, what to do in case of lost luggage, and how to minimize your chances of losing luggage.
Combating Higher Costs
Unfortunately, inflation is higher than it has been in four decades. As a result, finding flights and accommodation that match previous year’s vacation budgets can be difficult. This summer, in particular, may be worth looking into a cruise, as it is likely the best value for money vacation this year. For costs while traveling, it can be tougher to save when prices are high. To minimize costs, be sure to use a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, try sticking to local foods that are often more affordable, and take advantage of attractions that offer free admission.
Combating Low Availability
It can be difficult to travel when nearly everything is already booked, but not all hope is lost! Here are a few things you can try when having difficulty finding accommodation.
Call the hotel. Sometimes availability isn’t always up to date on booking websites, so it may be worth reaching out in person to see if any rooms are available.
Get creative. Are you traveling with a group of four? Would one larger room work rather than two separate, or vice-versa? If the room you want isn’t available, there may still be a way to make it work with your group if you are flexible.
Combating Long Wait Times
Nobody likes waiting in line, but that is the unfortunate reality facing travelers this summer. Short staff has led to long wait times for airport security worldwide. If you are lucky enough to be flying out of certain airports, you may be able to skip the TSA line for free with advanced reservation. Otherwise, programs such as TSA precheck and CLEAR are your best bet for getting through airport security more quickly. While the programs are not free, they typically save a lot of time going through the TSA lines.
Combating Unsatisfactory Customer Service
There isn’t a way to force a service representative to ensure you have a good experience. Still, there are things you can do to heighten your chances of a good experience. As hard as it may be, staying positive throughout the interaction will do more for your case than anything else. Aviation staff have had a tough year, and they are much more likely to be on your side of an issue if you are easy to deal with and explain your situation efficiently. If you run into bad customer service and your problem remains unsolved, escalate the case until you’ve got what you need.
Combating Monetary Loss From Cancelled or Disrupted Plans
It’s nice when everything goes according to plan, but you should plan for the worst this summer. As cancellations and delays continue to interrupt travel plans, it is more important than ever to ensure you are protected. One of the best ways to financially protect yourself when planning a trip is to get travel insurance. Travel insurance often covers some of the “non-refundable” items on your trip’s checklist.
Putting It All Together
If you’d like to be a part of the 20% of travelers who experienced no travel-related issues, following some of the guidelines above will push you in the right direction. This summer is the first big travel season since the pandemic’s start, and demand has skyrocketed. If you expect the worst and plan for it, you will be one step ahead of the game and closer to an amazing, trouble-free trip!
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Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
Travel lovers are, unfortunately, the most likely targets for pickpockets around the world. Whether true or not, pickpockets often view tourists as wealthy, making travelers a prime opportunity in a pickpocket’s mind. For travelers, falling victim to a pickpocket can quickly turn the trip of a lifetime into a dreadful ordeal. A recent study by money.co.uk reveals the top 10 places tourists are most likely to be pickpocketed. Below are the top 10 places to be on your guard based on total Tripadvisor reviews that mention pickpocketing and what you can do to lessen your chances of becoming a victim.
1) Las Ramblas pedestrian walkway – Barcelona, Spain
3,271 Reviews mention pickpockets.
Barcelona is known to have many pickpockets, and this famous walkway is one of the main hotspots.
There was an average of 12 robberies every hour in 2018 in Barcelona.
2) Eiffel Tower – Paris, France
2,569 Reviews mention pickpockets
Paris, and the Eiffel Tower specifically, is known to have a significant number of pickpockets and street scams.
In 2015, there was even a temporary shutdown of the Eiffel Tower as employees staged a walkout to protest the surge of pickpocket gangs in the area.
3) Trevi Fountain – Rome, Italy
2,206 Reviews mention pickpockets
According to legend, if you toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, you will return to Rome. This leads to almost $1.7 million worth of coins collected yearly, which goes to charity. Naturally, a pickpocket views the area as an opportunity to steal coins and pickpocket visitors.
4) Charles Bridge – Prague, Czech Republic
1,081 Reviews mention pickpockets
Like the Trevi Fountain, Charles Bridge has its own ritual. Touching the statue of St. John of Nepomuk on the bridge will bring you good luck and make sure you return to Prague. Pickpockets see this area as a great way to distract you while they attempt to steal your vacation money.
5) Sacré-Cœur – Paris, France
914 Reviews mention pickpockets
This church offers some fantastic views of Paris, but street scammers and pickpockets are lining the entrance and the walk up to the main building.
6) Colosseum – Rome, Italy
666 Reviews mention pickpockets
Every year, over 6 million people visit the Colosseum. This makes it a hotspot for pickpockets who take advantage of the crowds and distractions.
7) Old Town Square – Prague, Czech Republic
646 Reviews mention pickpockets
The central square of the historic section of Prague, Old Town Square, is one of the top attractions in the capital city. The astronomical clock, in particular, is a go-to site for tourists. Its popularity with tourists also makes it famous for pickpockets.
8) Louvre – Paris, France
598 Reviews mention pickpockets
The Louvre is one of the top attractions in Paris, welcoming over 9 million people per year. As such, it is a popular spot for pickpockets. Just like the Eiffel Tower, staff at the Louvre have staged walkouts in the past to protest the increasingly bold pickpockets in the area.
9) Notre-Dame Cathedral – Paris, France
408 Reviews mention pickpockets
This world-famous cathedral welcomes 30,000 people a day. As with many other places on this list, a tourist magnet like this also attracts pickpockets.
10) Sagrada Família – Barcelona, Spain
407 Reviews mention pickpockets
An architectural masterpiece, Sagrada Família, is another tourist destination with its fair share of pickpockets. 4.5 million people visit this site annually, making it an ideal spot for thieves.
So What Can You Do?
The number of reviews that mention pickpockets seems high enough to worry when visiting the above areas. Still, there are several precautions you can take to minimize your chances of becoming a victim.
For men, don’t wear your wallet in your back pocket. Pickpockets tend to avoid front pockets, buttoned pockets, and zippered pockets. If you cannot secure your wallet more, be sure never to carry more than you can afford to lose.
Don’t continually tap your pockets to see if you still have all of your items; this tells pickpockets exactly where to find them.
For women, don’t carry your wallet inside your purse. Instead, opt for a zippered pocket if possible.
Leave expensive jewelry at home, and don’t carry expensive designer items. These set you apart as a target.
When visiting high-traffic areas, be extra cautious. Be on the lookout for lone pickpockets as well as pickpockets that work in groups. A common scam to watch out for is younger people in a group of three or four walking around trying to get signatures for a petition. While they distract you with your signature, your view is obstructed from your vulnerable pockets.
Most importantly, don’t let the threat of pickpockets keep you from enjoying yourself! If you are smart and stay cautious when needed, your chances of being pickpocketed are minimal.
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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
Two and a half years into the pandemic, numerous countries are dropping their excessively bureaucratic travel rules and/or easing mandates that have essentially barred tourists from visiting. The latest to have done so are Greece and the British Virgin Islands, two vacation hotspots that seem ready to move on from Covid… At last.
The travel industry may be in turmoil amid the wave of flight delays and cancellations, pushing the virus aside and giving us something else to worry about. Irrespective of these more pressing issues, Covid remains a secondary concern, especially when world leaders like the U.S., Canada, Brazil and France are yet to fully lift their own entry requirements.
Luckily, these two sunny destinations are no longer aligned with them:
Greece Ends Mandatory Quarantine For Infected Tourists
In April 12, Greece scrapped all of its Covid mandates and allowed tourism to resume. Prior to that date, the Hellenic Republic had stood firmly on the side of Europe’s pro-restriction group. Throughout most of the crisis, it barred unvaccinated foreigners from visiting and imposed a series of restrictive measures to keep Covid from being imported from abroad.
Surprisingly, in the months leading up to summer, Greek Health officials took a U-turn and decided the country would now join other Mediterranean competitors, including Croatia and Montenegro, in reopening the external EU border. Since then, foreigners have been allowed to enter Greece restriction-free, as it was prior to 2020:
No vaccination is required
No pre-departure or post-arrival tests
No quarantine
No health registration form
While this was already incredible news for the travel industry, Greece had retained some of its internal Covid curbs, indicating it was not declaring Covid an endemic disease – just yet. Now, even this is slowly changing, as authorities announce that mandatory isolation for infected tourists has been scrapped.
You read that right. In case you get infected traveling in Greece, you will not be required to undergo isolation at a government-listed hotel. All quarantine rooms have been converted back into tourist accommodations, and the five-day isolation period for Covid-positive travelers has ceased applying.
You were infected by Covid during your island-hopping adventure in Greece? No worries! Although you’re advised to isolate until the virus has been cleared, you’re free to carry on traveling as usual, as if you had caught the flu or any widely disseminated respiratory disease treated as endemic.
You will also not be forbidden from accessing any of the following:
Public transport within Greece, including ferries, trains or planes*
Museums and cultural sites
Restaurants and indoor venues
*Valid for domestic routes only (e.g. if you’re infected and flying from Greece to a country that requires a negative test for entry, you will of course not be allowed to board the aircraft)
Despite not being subject to isolation, infected tourists must continue wearing FFFP2 or KN95 face masks if they choose not to quarantine. In other words, Greece’s recent lifting of face masks in all indoor settings does not apply to them, at least until the end of the voluntary quarantine period and/or subsequent negative test.
The British Virgin Islands Scrap All Entry Rules And Declares Covid Endemic
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) may not be as popular in the Caribbean as the likes of Jamaica or the Dominican Republic, but it is always a good sign when more nations, however small, let go of their draconian measures. If you’re visiting the BVI on a cruise in the weeks to come, you may be thrilled to learn that you’re no longer treated as a potential health threat for the archipelago.
On July 15, he Commonwealth collective of small islands lifted its only, yet much criticized entry requirement: that of mandatory pre-departure testing, applying to all irrespective to immunization and/or recovery status. Now that testing has been scrapped, there are officially no Covid mandates left to be observed when crossing the BVI border.
According to Petrona Davies, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, this relaxation is based upon the ‘reduced impact of Covid and the move from pandemic to endemic’. Based on this statement, we can safely assert that the British Virgin Islands is officially leaving Covid behind as it returns to a pre-pandemic state of normality.
Mrs. Davies confirmed that, after two years of living in a state of emergency and the vaccination campaign, the virus is having a ‘very minimal impact’ on the population. Cases may oscillate, but mortality rates have ‘significantly decreased’. She cites the positive health trend as the reason why they are reopening borders and allowing ‘pre-Covid’ tourism.
These may be exciting times now that Covid is being treated more like a mild disease and less like a major health threat, but we should not let our guards down: international travel is still very much in a state of chaos, from long delays for passport renewal to the spate of cancellations affecting air passengers.
When flying abroad, make sure you get insured in order to minimize risks of being left stranded, or facing under a financial strain due to flight disruption and other emergency expenses. You can find out more about different insurance policies, including those fit for long-term travel, on this link.
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Canadian airlines such as Air Canada and WestJet have been accused of making up excuses in order to avoid paying compensation to travelers. As anyone who has traveled over the past few months will admit, the travel industry is a mess right now. From spiraling flight costs to flights that are delayed or canceled completely – not to mention luggage going missing in great numbers – flying right now is a not an easy endeavour.
Yet whilst travelers can usually consider themselves protected against the worst, travelers in Canada have accused airlines of offering wishy-washy excuses to get out of paying compensation. Through a series of actions such as changing their stories and reasons for their delays and cancellations and not offering details, passengers have grown weary of airlines in Canada trying to get out of paying compensation – and they demand better. Here’s a closer look at this story, plus a recap of passenger rights and how they should benefit from flights that have been affected.
Airlines Making Excuses – What Travelers Should Know
Whilst passengers are seemingly well protected in the event of delays in theory, in practice the reality is quite different, as a growing number of Canadian travelers are beginning to find out this year. More and more travelers have criticized the response to their valid claims for compensation by large airlines such as Air Canada and WestJet, accusing them of making up excuses and stretching the truth in order to get out of their legal requirement to pay compensation to travelers.
Passenger Scott Aalgaard described what he called highly suspicious excuses from Air Canada for denying his right to compensation. He was first notified that his flight had been delayed on July 5th due to a ‘maintenance issue‘. Eventually the flight was cancelled due to ‘staffing issues‘.
Three days later when he filed for compensation, he was denied because his flight was cancelled due to a ‘labor dispute‘ outside the airlines control.
This isn’t the first time passengers have gone public to the media. One such traveler highlighted an incident that saw herself and her fiancé – who were on the same flight – filing for compensation after a delay of six hours on Christmas Day. Her partner was awarded $700 in compensation for the delay in line with the current legal requirements. However, she was left empty handed after Air Canada replied that the delay was due to a safety-related “technical fault”, thus making it outside the airline’s control and not warranting compensation. Two identical passengers, two wildly different outcomes.
That isn’t the only example of funny business that has been brought to the fore. Other passengers have complained of airlines flip-flopping between different reasons for delays and rejecting claims for compensation despite the reasons being within the airline’s control and thus worthy of redress, such as flight crew availability. Other airlines, such as WestJet, have been criticized for not providing travelers with adequate details of why their flight has been canceled, making filing a claim difficult.
This isn’t the first time that travelers have been suspicious of airlines trying to get out of paying compensation. An inquiry that finished in November 2021 stated that whilst they found no evidence the airlines “intentionally misled passengers,” they did however feel that information provided to travelers “was inadequate, terse and unclear.” The CTA has called on travelers to file complaints if they feel aggrieved.
Passenger Compensation – Information For Travelers
In the event that travelers in Canada are subjected to a delayed or a cancelled flight, they are within their rights to receive compensation from their airline. For large airlines, such as Air Canada or WestJet, the levels of compensation a are as follows:
3-6 hour delays – $400
6-9 hour delays – $700
9+ hour delays – $1000
Travelers on small airlines are also due redress for delayed flights, though these amount to sums of $125, $250 and $500 for the same respective delay lengths as above.
Compensation is only due to passengers who face a delay or cancellation that is within the airline’s control, and isn’t safety-related. Travelers have a year to make a claim for compensation and whilst airlines can offer alternative forms of compensation, such as flight tickets, vouchers or credit, passengers are within their rights to ask for it in monetary form. Such rights were enshrined in an update to policy from the Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) on December 15th, 2019.
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During the past few months, Hawaiian authorities —and locals— have been complaining about over-tourism, and their wish of having fewer tourists is starting to come true.
The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) recently published an official reportshowing the results of a recent survey for visitor satisfaction in 2022, and the conclusions were controversial: travelers were extremely satisfied with their travel experience but didn’t want to return soon, mainly due to high prices.
Travel To Hawaii Is Changing
During the pandemic, tourism in Hawaii has been crucial to counter the consequences of the global health crisis. Many visitors during the pandemic were returning visitors. And, at the beginning of the year, from January to March 2022, it was estimated that 75% of tourists were returning visitors.
John De Fries, President and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), explained why Hawaii was becoming such a popular destination a few months ago: “An essential component of Hawai‘i’s sustained recovery, the increase in visitor satisfaction during the first quarter is attributable to the numerous, hardworking individuals in our community – from the flight attendants and front desk agents, to the stewards of our natural and cultural resources, to the musicians and entertainers, and the shop owners and restaurant servers.”
However, almost 4,000 travelers were surveyed, and many visitors from the United States and Canada —which represent the majority of travelers visiting Hawaii— stated that they didn’t want to return to Hawaii.
Despite that 9 out of 10 assured that they would recommend Hawaii as a vacation destination to friends and family, compared to results from 2021 more travelers stated that wouldn’t return ever nor in 5 years.
Why Travelers Won’t Return To Hawaii
US and Canadian travelers love Hawaii and nearly 90% rated their time in this destination as “excellent”. However, there are a few reasons why visitors will not be returning:
High prices: Hawaii has the highest hotel prices in the United States with an average of $371 per night. Luxury hotels’ average is $887 and Maui is the most expensive island. Also, gas prices are higher than the national price —it’s been above $5.60 per gallon during the past few weeks— and restaurants and car rentals are also expensive.
Travelers can now visit international destinations: During the pandemic, Hawaii was the perfect destination not only because of its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and great attractions but also because there weren’t as many alternatives. Now that travelers can visit exotic and cheaper destinations, Hawaii has lost popularity.
Locals dislike tourists: There’s been a huge debate over tourism in the archipelago. Locals and authorities have publicly complained about having too many tourists and a few weeks ago a local mayor requested airlines to reduce the number of flights to the islands. Some travelers do not feel as welcome or comfortable as they would like to while they are on vacations.
According to the local site Beat of Hawaii, local authorities and residents should be more concerned about why travelers are not returning and stated many reasons why returning guests are important: regular income stream for different companies in the travel industry, loyalty, and considering that they are more likely to pay for upgrades.
Authorities in Hawaii must determine now whether the loss of travelers’ interest in returning to this destination is beneficial or detrimental. John De Fries assured to be considering every aspect: “We aim to foster the right balance in which Hawai‘i’s residents, natural resources, and culture can thrive, and visitors can have a meaningful, enriching experience.”
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Mediterranean islands are commonly associated with beach getaways, translucent, teal waters and breathtaking sunsets, and they usually compete with each other for the title of leading summer destination every year. There’s just too many to name, and we’re sure you’ve heard all about Ibiza, Santorini, Mallorca, Malta and the like…
But what about the Eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus? Cyprus is gaining popularity fast and travelers may want to get there soon before everyone else has the exact same idea.
Move over, Italy
We can already see our British and European readers rolling their eyes at this, with Cyprus having been a major vacay hotspot for years. We totally get it, it is hardly Albania or one of those unheard-of, severely underrated countries most people can’t even pinpoint on a map. It is, in fact, one of Europe’s favorite summer islands.
Unfortunately, from our side of the pond, Cyprus is still not nearly as successful as Greece or Spain: the U.S. did not rank anywhere in the top ten of tourist arrivals into this country back in 2019, with fewer Americans visiting than Romanians, Poles, Ukrainians – and even the blacklisted Russians.
After two years of Covid and strict border rules, that have only recently been dropped completely, we will take a wild guess here and presume U.S. arrivals have dropped even lower on the list. While this may be attributed to a lack of nonstop flights between the two countries, this has never discouraged Americans from traveling to faraway locations before.
Thailand has been a major Asian destination for years, and direct flights have only returned recently after 10 years of pause; not to mention the Pacific islands, where connecting flights are the norm. No matter how far you go, you will find an American snoozing at the beach, beer cup hanging from the classic neck strap, in places as remote as Fiji.
So why have most Americans still not heard of Cyprus, one might wonder? On this article, you will find out why, as a U.S. citizen, you may be one of the few in the Western World still sleeping on this Mediterranean jewel – and of course, why it should definitely be as big a summer destination as other Southern European countries:
Where is Cyprus to begin with?
That’s a tricky question, and there is no simple answer. Let’s start with a few facts: first, Cyprus is a Mediterranean island, and over the ten millennia it has been inhabited it has received a large influx of immigration from neighboring kingdoms and Empires, such as Greeks, Persians, Turks, Armenians and whatnot.
It is a member of the European Union, even though it is located 226 miles from the nearest Greek island. Regardless of the distance, Greece is still Cyprus’ nearest fellow EU member. Comparatively, Turkey’s southern coast is only 50 miles away from the Northern Cypriot shore, and other closer neighbors include Lebanon, Syria and Israel.
While it is indisputably culturally European, Cyprus may be geographically placed in either Europe or Western Asia, due to its remote location in the East Mediterranean, only a stone’s throw away from several Middle Eastern nations. But then again, the line that divides the continents is blurry and has changed over time.
Today, despite surviving numerous invasions and being subject to the rule of every single superpower you can name, Cyprus has remained loyal to its Ancient Greek origins. The vast majority of Cypriots speak, and some even identify purely as Greek, meaning the island is Greek in (nearly) all aspects – despite being its own country.
Some takeaways from this:
Cyprus is a Mediterranean island, and a country
Although it is technically in Western Asia, it is a definitely a European nation and an EU member*
Its official currency is the Euro
1.2 million people live there
The vast majority of islanders speak Greek, although some speak Turkish (more on that later)
*Think the Canary Islands, that are an integral part of Spain and have been for centuries, but are geographically located in Africa
Ok, but what exactly are Americans missing out on?
1. First of all, Cyprus is warmer than most of Europe all-year round
Cyprus is hot. And we mean sizzling hot. In the words of the country’s own tourism board, it has an ‘intense’ Mediterranean climate. The long dry summer extends from mid-May to mid-October, when temperatures can reach over 100 degrees in many coastal cities. Luckily, the sea is never too far away for a refreshing dip.
Temperatures can easily reach triple digits as early as late April, though, and winters remain pretty mild, to say the least: the coldest it usually gets on the coast is an average 16 degrees. We’re of course not taking into account the island’s towering mountains, where snow falls profusely and skiing activities are widely promoted over winter.
The point is: Cyprus is the ultimate paradise island. For those who grew up facing the harsh Northeastern American winter, even January in Cyprus will feel like a summer break. It enjoys between 300 to 340 sunny days per year, and the sea remains considerably warmer than most other Mediterranean hubs, even in the low season.
If you would still rather experience that classic Mediterranean summer, make sure you bring enough sunscreen to avoid burns, limit your time at the beach, especially during peak sun hours, and drink plenty of water, maybe double the amount you would normally at home. Trust us, the Cypriot heat is no joke.
2. 402 miles of coastline with turquoise waters
Unlike most Southern European countries that are only partially on the Mediterranean – Spain, France, Croatia, Turkey and others – Cyprus is fully surrounded by it. More precisely, it has 402 miles of either sandy beaches or scenic coastal rides where the turquoise glow of the ocean dominates the landscape for miles on end.
This means Cyprus is one of the few European nations with just enough beaches to counter overtourism. Don’t get us wrong, we are definitely not saying it does not get crowded. Many of the most popular beaches in the country like Ayia Napa and Protaras are absolutely packed in summer, but if you’re looking for quieter spots, it won’t be too hard to find them.
With so many beaches and other bathing areas inland available, including calm water rivers and waterfalls, you will be surprised at how many unblemished natural sites Cyprus still hides. Some of the best ones are situated on the island’s Northern coast, and they do not receive half as many tourists as the South.
We will explain why that is further below, but many of the seaside towns and sandy beaches on Cyprus’ Karpas Peninsula, that one crooked finger stretching out on the map that gives the island its distinct geography, are virtually unspoiled by mass tourism. The same cannot be said about other Medi competitors like Italy.
Before item No. 3, the shortest History lesson possible
So why is the North not as popular among tourists? In sum, Cyprus has been a divided island from 1974 onward, when an attempt to unite the island with Greece was violently hampered by a Turkish invasion. Due to its proximity to Turkey – the Cypriot coast can be seen from the Turkish mainland with the naked eye – the North was seized by the latter’s troops.
Prior to that, both of Cyprus’ Greek-speaking and Turkish-speaking populations lived somewhat peacefully in mixed communities. After the invasion, Turkish Cypriots were forced to move to the North, and the Greeks living in the North had to flee South. Fast forward a few decades, and a second de facto country now claims 36% of the island: the TRNC.
TRNC is an acronym for Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, a ‘country’ whose independence has only been recognized by – tee-hee – Turkey! The entire international community, including the United States, considers the North to be an integral part of the Republic of Cyprus (the South) that has been under an illegal occupation since the division took place.
For that reason, Turkish-speaking Cyprus has not enjoyed the same economic boom the Greek side has, maintaining official diplomatic relations only with Turkey and being under harsh economic sanctions. Even though visitors are welcome, and the Northern Cypriot administration strongly encourages tourism, very few actually venture far North.
Off path travel, anyone?
3. Here you will find the last divided capital in the world
Curiously, the UN-established Buffer Zone separating the internationally recognized Republic of Cyprus from the self-proclaimed TRNC runs along the heart of Nicosia, the island’s capital, dividing it between both states. Greek Cypriots claim the entire city – at the same time, Turkish Cypriots consider Northern Nicosia their capital.
Due to this complex situation, checkpoints have been installed in the city, including on the main street, effectively functioning like international borders. Because of that, in order to cross from the Greek part into the Turkish, you will need to present your passport, even though the Cypriot Government considers the TRNC a part of Cyprus.
Much like Berlin in the 1980s, prior to fall of the wall, Nicosia is a city plagued by division. Sad as it might be, and we are sure this is not easy for Cypriots raised there, it is the barbed wire-protected streets, the political murals lining up the Buffer Zone, and the constant clash between the Greek and Turkish worlds that make it such a unique, fascinating city break.
You could be having a sumptuous Turkish breakfast in the morning on the Northern side, as you listen to the Quran being recited out of the nearest minaret, and then cross to the South in the afternoon to try some traditional Greek pastries and visit museums where you’ll learn about the island’s Greek origins. Quite literally, Nicosia offers the best of both worlds.
4. Wine tours. Yes, in Cyprus.
Those coming to Europe with their hearts set on a winery tour will hardly ever think of Cyprus as their first pick. After all, how could Cyprus even compete when France has Bordeaux, Champagne and the Loire Valley, right? That’s when Cyprus becomes massively underestimated – even among Europeans that have been visiting for years.
It has the ideal climate for growing grapes, and Cypriot wine is among the best quality wine in the whole of Europe, ranking 50th in the world in terms of total production. A majority of visitors may want to head straight to the nearest beach straight out of the plane, but little do they know Cyprus has a whole wine industry that is yet to be discovered.
An off the path thing to do in the country – we love those – is going wine tasting in any of the inland villages, particularly those on the slopes of Troodos Mountains. This range sits on the exact center of the island and features the highest Cypriot peak: the aptly titled Mount Olympus, evocative of the Ancient Greek mythology.
As for the wine produced here… It is the drink of the gods. Among some of the best wine-producing villages, we have Lofou, where the busy seaside life is replaced by mountainside town views, with cobblestone streets and a more laid-back feel. Other mandatory stops include the picturesque Omodos and Pera Pedi, only a few miles north of the city of Limassol.
5. Cyprus is much more affordable than other Medi vacations
Minimum wages are a strong indication of a country’s purchase power and how expensive things are. In Spain, the minimum wage is roughly $1,068.84, beaten by France’s whopping $1,566.62, and both of these countries expect tourists to provide proof of at least $101 in spending money per day for the duration of their stay.
Even though Cyprus does not have a minimum wage, the average Cypriot makes about $940 a month, proving living costs are far less exorbitant than France’s, where the bare minimum a worker is paid is still 60% higher. Naturally, these figures have a direct influence on the price of basic items (meals, a bottle of still water, sunblock, insect repellent etc).
We won’t lie to you: Cyprus is not an ultra cheap summer destination. It is surely no obscure Balkan country where tourists can go by with $`100 dollars a whole week, or the budget-friendly Central America, that has even overtaken Europe lately in total hostel bookings. But it is cheaper than the Western Mediterranean.
Paphos, a city on the country’s West Coast, has been named this year the fourth most affordable summer destination in Europe, where tourists can live comfortably off of $72.78 on average per day. Needless to say, Paphos beats old summer favorites like Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Spain’s Costa del Sol and France’s Côte d’Azur in terms of affordability.
6. Oh, and Cyprus is not that far away
There may be no direct flight connections between the U.S./Canada and Cyprus, but North Americans can easily reach this summer dreamland via short stopovers in a number of European countries. An Austrian Airlines flight leaving from JFK, final destination Larnaca (Cyprus), with an air-side transit in Vienna only takes about 12 hours.
In addition to Austrian Airlines, other European carriers like AirSerbia (Serbia), Swiss Airlines (Switzerland), and Lufthansa (Germany) offer non-direct links to Cyprus, with transfers usually lasting less than two hours. But hey, even if you have a long layover ahead, this is not necessarily a bad thing, at least on certain routes.
Plus, Cyprus just needs that much-needed U.S. tourism boost. Prior to HBO’s Game of Thrones, that introduced Croatia to a wider American public, there were no direct flights between the Balkan country and the States. Now, United has a successful summer route connecting Newark and Dubrovnik. Who knows… Maybe Cyprus will follow suit one day?
Now that you know all about Cyprus, and what makes it a serious contender for the best Mediterranean summer ever, how about booking those tickets right away? Just make sure that you also get insured for flight delays and cancellations: in case you haven’t heard, U.S. travel is in turmoil and we don’t want your dreamy Cyprus trip to turn nightmarish.
One last thing… and this is VERY important
In case this piece of information has already slipped your mind – we forgive you, as the wonders of Cyprus do take precedence over anything else – the island is split in two. To the South, you have the Greek-speaking Republic of Cyprus, a UN member. To the North, lies the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which occupies the territory illegally.
The island of Cyprus has three airports, though only two of those are under the control of the Republic of Cyprus. Those are the airports in the cities of Larnaca (Southeast Coast) and Paphos (West Coast), where most international flights arrive. The third airport, Ercan, served the capital of Nicosia until it was split in half.
Now, it is under the control of the TRNC. As a result of an international embargo, all flights to Ercan have a layover in Turkey, the only other UN member that has recognized the TRNC as an independent state. If you are planning on visiting Nicosia on your trip to Cyprus, make a mental note to NEVER book flights through Ercan.
Foreigners arriving in the island via the North will be turned away at the border when attempting to cross into the South afterwards, as the Republic of Cyprus considers any entry into the territory through Ercan, or any of the sea ports in the Turkish-controlled North, to be illegal. Cypriot and European citizens are exempt from this restriction.
If you’re an American, in order to avoid problems, just fly into Larnaca or Paphos instead. There are several shuttle buses, as well as public transport, linking the capital to the Republic’s airports, though Larnaca is the closest hub to Nicosia (33.6 miles away). Oh, and please: do not let this discourage you from visiting the North!
This rule does not go both ways: Americans who land in the South, and then enter the North are allowed back in the South any time, without any issues, no matter how many times they cross in one trip. Just remember to always keep your passport on you if you’re visiting the TRNC – or, in the case of Europeans traveling without their passports, a national ID card.
A Quick Recap
Always use Larnaca or Paphos as your point of entry into Cyprus
The Euro is the official currency in the South
The Turkish Lira is the currency in use in the North*
Never enter military, no-go zones without permission
*Euros may be accepted in North Nicosia, but not other cities in the Turkish-controlled North
Main Sights In Cyprus
The Church of St. Lazarus in Larnaca, the oldest in all of Cyprus dating back to the 9th century
Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, on the shores of the Larnaca Salt Lake, one of the holiest sites in Islam
Cape Greco for scenic views of the Mediterranean and sea caves
Ayia Napa and Protaras, where some of the clearest waters in the island can be found
Nicosia, the last divided capital city in the world
The Kyrenia medieval castle in Kyrenia/Girne (Northern Cyprus)
The Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque in Famagusta (Northern Cyprus)
Varosha, a ghosttown in the North left in ruins in the aftermath of the Turkish Invasion (Northern Cyprus)
Limassol, Cyprus’ second largest and most modern city
Lofou, a traditional inland Cypriot village
Mount Olympus
Nea Paphos, an archaeological site housing the ruins of an ancient Greek city in Paphos
The Tombs of the Kings in Paphos
The Akamas National Park
The Adonis Baths
The Blue Lagoon
What Are Cyprus’ Entry Requirements?
Since May 28, 2022, Cyprus has no Covid entry requirements. In other words, Americans can enter the country regardless of vaccination status, without testing and quarantine. Visiting is as simple as it was prior to the pandemic, though other requirements, such as indoor mask wearing once inside the country, may still apply.
Americans (and Canadians) can stay in Cyprus – both the South and the Turkish-occupied North – up to 90 days out of every 180 day period. As the country is not yet a member of Europe’s Schengen Area, any visits to other EU countries, or Schengen-associated states, do not count towards your visa limit in Cyprus.
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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
International travel is back with a vengeance now that Covid is yesterday’s news – and a number of airlines are out here offering pretty irresistible flight deals. Whether it’s stopovers in amazing cities with no extra fees, free tickets to some of the world’s top rated attractions or even hotel stays, their customers will be spoiled for choice this summer…
Although entry rules have never been easier to navigate and countless destinations have reopened fully, the price of travel is skyrocketing as a result of a record-high demand. In places like Miami, hotel prices have shot up by more than 50%, making vacations not only less affordable, but even prohibitive for a majority of travelers.
Fortunately, these new flight combo deals will help ease the burden a bit:
What Are Layover Programs And Which Airlines Are Included?
While they are not everyone’s cup of tea, long layovers are a great way to tick yet another destination off the bucket list, usually for no additional costs. It is the ultimate definition of two birds, one stone, allowing connecting passengers to see all the main highlights of a city ahead of boarding their final flight.
Some destinations are, in fact, major ‘layover’ hotspots, particularly in the Middle East, where both West and East-bound routes overlap. In recent years, places like Istanbul and Dubai have gained traction as stopover hubs, mainly due to their strong connectivity and direct links to multiple cities in Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa.
As these global cities rose in popularity, so did their so-called Layover Programs: the industry’s response to the needs of travelers on brief city breaks. These programs aim to make transiting airports easier, especially during interminable journeys where access to certain services is limited – and they have been revolutionizing long-haul trips since.
In case you missed this piece of news amid the spate of flight cancellations that has plagued airports lately, there are seven popular airlines offering layover programs with hefty benefits. These can range from free overnights in close proximity to the airport, to big hotel discounts and entry fee waivers for a number of tourist sites.
It may sound too good to be true, but we assure you these ‘on the house’ stopovers are very real, and they will come in quite handy now that travel is getting costlier. Ready to find out which airlines have joined the trend?
Here are the details in full:
Airlines Offering Free Hotels And Attractions
Emirates – On Dubai Routes
Emirates is ensuring customers have the best possible connection time in Dubai – even when transit times are long. Dubbing it the Dubai Connect, the luxury-loving airline has a surprisingly generous layover policy in place: all passengers transiting Dubai between 10 and 24 hours are eligible for the program, regardless of cabin class.
Emirates will continue providing the shortest possible connection, but anyone who cannot book seats on the quickest routes will be entitled to ‘complimentary hotel accommodation’, transfers, and even entry visas free of charge. Dubai Connect services can be added on eligible bookings through the ‘Manage’ section at least 24 hours before departure.
In sum, those flying Emirates and staying longer in Dubai now enjoy:
Free hotels (5-star ones for First Class and Business passengers)
Transfers to and from the airport
Visa fees waived
Access to the Dubai Connect Lounge
Free Entry Into The Country’s Top 3 Attractions
Additionally, the carrier has launched a new campaign allowing passengers who book flights through their website to obtain free tickets into the United Arab Emirate’s leading tourist attractions. These include the sky high Burj Khalifa building, the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, both in Dubai, and Louvre Abu Dhabi, in Abu Dhabi.
In order to qualify, travelers must book flights froom July 1 through September 30, though booking dates, as well as terms and conditions, may vary by region. As reported by the Khaleej Times, once the reservation is confirmed, tickets can be requested via e-mail ([email protected]). The following are required:
Booking reference
Arrival date
Name of the ticket holder
Phone number
Email address
Etihad Airways – On Abu Dhabi Routes
Following a pandemic-induced pause, Etihad Airways is officially relaunching its Etihad Stopovers with some ‘steep’ discounts. The scheme automatically grants Abu Dhabi-bound passengers flying with the carrier a 40% discount at a participating five-star hotel, or a one to two-night complimentary stay in a three or four-star hotel.
On top of that, Etihad is introducing its new Transit Connect. The initiative acts as an extension of Etihad Stopovers and permits guests on ‘eligible routes’ to book a complimentary hotel near Abu Dhabi International Airport for flight connections between 10 and 24 hours, similarly to their competitors. These include:
Centro Al Manhal Abu Dhabi
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham
TRYP by Wyndham Abu Dhabi
Premier Inn Abu Dhabi Capital Centre
Premier Inn Abu Dhabi International Airport
Ramada Abu Dhabi Corniche*
Ramada Abu Dhabi Downtown
Traders Hotel Qaryat Al Beri
*This one is a dry hotel
As for the 40% discount, it can be redeemed in a total of 23 luxury properties around Abu Dhabi, including the famous Anantara Easter Mangroves, the Crowne Palza Abu Dhabi (Yas Island), Le Meridien Abu Dhabi, the Radisson Blu Yas Island Hotel, the Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, and the InterContinental.
Turkish Airlines – On Istanbul Routes
Istanbul is unarguably one of the most exciting cities on the planet. A cross-continental behemoth, this metropolis is so vast it reaches beyond the Bosphorus Strait, past Europe and deep into Asia. Even better, all of its numerous landmarks and historical sites can be explored for free with Turkish Airlines’ signature Stopover In Istanbul.
Turkey’s flag carrier lets customers book hotel stays, free of charge, when transiting Istanbul for more than 20 hours. Business Class passengers can choose from a list of five-star hotels for up to two days, while Economy Fare ticket holders may pick a four-star overnight. On the downside, visa fees and transfers are not included.
More information can be found on this link, but here are some of the most important bulletpoints:
Transits must be 20 hours long or over 20 hours
The offer is only available for passengers transferring in Istanbul Airport (IST), on the European side of the city
eVisa fees are not included (a requirement applying to American and Canadian citizens, but not Europeans)
Applications for a Stopover In Istanbul must be submitted via email once booking is completed
In case you haven’t heard, Turkey is fully open for travel, having removed all of its Covid-related entry requirements to welcome foreigners irrespective of nationality or vaccination status (though visa restrictions still apply). Effectively, transiting Istanbul on a Turkish Airlines flight is as simple as it ever was.
Airlines Offering Luxury Hotel Discounts
Qatar – On Doha Routes
Hosting the World Cup later this year, the Middle Eastern country of Qatar is determined to leave a good first impression on foreigners (budget travelers included). Naturally, this involves boosting the attractiveness of Qatar Airways as a flag-carrier, with a massive Stopover discount that is set to make trips to Doha a lot more accessible.
Under this program, all passengers booking tickets through Qatar Airways with a minimum transit time of 12 hours in the Qatari capital will be able to book a stay in a 5-star hotel starting at only $54,00. There are three packages available, and prices vary based on hotel classification and the length of the stopover:
Standard Packages (4-Star)
Starting at $14,00 for 1 night
Starting at $22,00 for 2 nights
Starting at $46,00 for 3 nights
Starting at $69,00 for 4 nights
Premium Packages (5-Star)
Starting at $21,00 for 1 night
Starting at $36,00 for 2 nights
Starting at $66,00 for 3 nights
Starting at $97,00 for 4 nights
Luxury Packages (5-Star)
Starting at $54,00 for 1 night
Starting at $103,00 for 2 nights
Starting at $166,00 for 3 nights
Starting at $230,00 for 4 nights
Once they select their package and the duration of the stopover, which can be as long as four nights with no additional airfare fees, guests are free to ‘enhance’ their journey with add-ons, such as breakfast, a Discover Doha Tour, and airport transfers. Additional fees may apply and travelers are reminded Covid entry requirements remain in place.
Airlines With ‘Free Of Charge’ Stopovers
Iberia – On Madrid Routes
Iberia may not offer free hotel stays or airport transfers like Etihad or Emirates, but its ‘Hola Madrid’ Stopover program is still incredibly popular among transiting passengers in Spain. At no additional cost to the price of tickets, passengers can spend up to 6 nights in the Spanish capital, one of Europe’s most sought-after cities.
During the long stopover, other benefits apply, including up to 40% of discount on accommodation and free public transport for two days. Fortunately for budget travelers, Madrid is not nearly as expensive as Ibiza or Palma de Mallorca, and Spain’s simplified entry rules make it an easy country to visit.
TAP Air Portugal – On Lisbon, Porto Routes
Portugal’s TAP is another airline promising long city layovers at no additional costs this summer. When booking flights through TAP connecting in mainland Portugal, tourists have the option to extend their stay for up to five days in one of two of the most popular Portuguese cities: the picturesque Lisbon or the trendy Porto.
Lisbon is Portugal’s capital and an ideal destination for food and History enthusiasts. Strolling up the city’s hilltop Alfama district, visitors can find countless bakeries serving traditional Portuguese pastries, including the world-famous pastel de nata. Up North in Porto, the Dom Luis I Bridge spanning the River Douro and baroque buildings dominate the landscape.
Icelandair – On Iceland Routes
Few countries in the world are as mystical – and enticingly mysterious – as Iceland. Northern lights, rotten shark dishes, sledding tours, unique natural landmarks and amusingly quirky, friendly locals: it truly has it all. Luckily for those transiting Iceland, Icelandair allows stopovers of up to 7 days at ‘no additional airfare’.
Ahead of resuming the journey to their final destination, travelers on a long vacation have the opportunity to bathe in one of Iceland’s countless geothermal pools, engage in some sightseeing in the compact capital region of Reykjavik, and marvel at the wonders of the aurora on clear nights. It might also be worth mentioning Iceland has scrapped all Covid restrictions.
Bottom Line
When booking international trips throughout 2022, we urge all our readers to purchase health insurance in advance and check both health, and non-health related entry conditions in place at their final destination. Lastly, all flight deals mentioned on this article remain subject to change and/or availability. Therefore, following airline updates is advised.
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox
Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before traveling. Travel Off Path does not endorse traveling against government advisories
Portugal has become the latest country to remove all of its Covid-19 entry requirements.
The wildly popular travel destination was one of the few remaining major tourist destinations to still have relatively strict entry requirements in place. However, following today’s positive announcement, the sunny destination will now join the growing list of other countries on the continent and around the world that have liberated travelers of tests and vaccine passport requirements – just in time for a busy summer of travel.
Whilst the travel situation throughout Europe still looks fraught, with strikes, delays, and cancellations affecting the travel plans of many travelers, being able to visit Portugal without tests or any other kinds of documentation will likely bring some cheer to the great numbers of travelers looking to jet off to the country over the next few months.
Here’s a closer look at what exactly is set to change regarding entry to Portugal, and what else travelers should know about visiting the country.
Portugal Removes Entry Requirements – What Travelers Should Know
The last few months have been full of positive stories for travelers, particularly when it comes to countries dropping their Covid-19 related barriers and opening up to travel once more. However, whilst much of Europe has peeled back their entry requirements in favor of welcoming tourists back, some countries have resisted so far, including Portugal. However, that has now all changed courtesy of an announcement made by the country today.
Prior to today, entry to Portugal was still a relatively tall order for travelers, which saw many flock to alternate destinations on the continent as a result. In order to be able to enter the country, Portugal had required travelers to ensure that they had either proof of a negative Covid-19 test result, proof of recovery from a Covid-19 infection or proof of their vaccination against the virus. However, as of today, travelers will no longer need any of those things to enter.
The change to Portugal’s entry requirements was reported by the country’s National Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) today. It states that travelers will no longer need to present a negative test result in order to fly into the country, nor will they need to show proof of vaccination through either the EU Digital Certificate or any other means.
In short, travelers are now free to enter the country in exactly the same way they were before the pandemic – armed with only a passport and a relevant visa where required.
The change is live now, meaning that travelers flying to the country from July 1, 2022 onwards will find the process of entering the country a relative breeze – just like it is to enter most other European destinations.
Following Portugal’s change, it means that there are just five countries in Europe that are still clinging on to their Covid-19 related entry requirements – Spain, France, the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Malta.
According to the official document that brought about the changes, it was made due to the fact that “the epidemiological situation experienced in Portugal following the Covid-19 disease pandemic has remained relatively stable, as a result of the high vaccination coverage, the emergence of new drugs for the serious disease and greater knowledge about the infection”.
The dropping of the entry requirements comes at a strange time for Portugal – not that anyone is complaining – with the country currently reporting some of the highest Covid-19 statistics on the continent. The past week has seen an average of nearly 9,000 daily cases, with early June seeing as many as 70,000 cases reported in one day. However, with summer fast approaching and the country at risk of missing out on another consecutive year of a tourist drought, it seems Portugal has pivoted towards living with Covid-19 – though not entirely.
Whilst it may be a piece of cake entering the country, Portugal is still pretty strict with regards to managing the spread of the virus once travelers arrive. The country’s Minister of the Presidency, Mariana Vieira da Silva, revealed in a press conference this week that mask wearing on public transport, hospitals and pharmacies was still required and strongly recommended in other situations. That said, the change is a positive step in the right direction, and has firmly put Portugal back on the map as a serious destination for travelers to consider this summer.
