Tag: Travelers

  • Travelers Could Need A Booster To Visit Bali Starting In July

    Travelers Could Need A Booster To Visit Bali Starting In July

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    Quickly after relaxing some of its most stringent Covid mandates and allowing vaccinated tourists to visit with few limitations, Indonesia is mulling a new package of restrictions to be introduced following a viral rebound. For the double vaccinated, this could mean showing proof of a booster when entering the country, including the province of Bali.

    Masked Tourists Arriving In Bali, Indonesia During Covid Pandemic

    Recently, South East Asia has taken steps to reopen following two years of total closure, however hesitantly. Indonesia is no exception, having relaunched Visa On Arrival for a number of foreign nationals visiting Bali earlier in March, and even exempting vaccinated tourists from the dreaded pre-departure tests.

    While it seemed before as if Indonesia would not deviate from its reopening path, now we are not so sure:

    Indonesian Minister Hints At New Booster If Cases Continue Rising

    Couple Of Travelers Taking A Selfie With A Selfie Stick In Bali, Indonesia

    Starting in late 2021, Indonesia has been moving away from its harsh pandemic policies, allowing immunized travelers to return without quarantine or testing, and boosting its tourism-dependent economy after months of severe stagnation. The recent relaxation led many to believe the nation would revoke even more rulings in the weeks to come.

    That may no longer be the case, after Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, one of Indonesia’s top officials regarding border policies, suggested a new booster requirement for travel may be enacted in the (likely) event that Covid infections continue rising.

    Metro Commuters Wearing A Face Mask In Jakarta, Indonesia During Covid Pandemic

    Prior to this month, pandemic rates in Indonesia had been on a laudable downward trend, influenced by the Government’s swift actions and comprehensive vaccination campaign. Regrettably, Covid is spreading again – fast. According to Reuters, Indonesia is reporting its highest daily averages since February 20, when cases peaked.

    The case count may not be high enough yet to overwhelm the nation’s health sector – there are 1,485 new infections each day, or 3% of the peak – but the Government is determined to keep them from increasing any further. Effectively, local authorities are targeting tourists once more, even after WHO expressly told countries international travel is not a risk.

    Pura Ulun Danu Bratan Pura Beratan Temple In Bali, Indonesia

    Is There An Actual Risk Indonesia Will Impose A Booster Mandate?

    In Pandjaitan’s own words, should the number of cases continue climbing in July, they will introduce booster doses as a travel requirement for ‘the common good’. Despite the warning, the Minister reaffirmed the pandemic remains under control across Indonesia, even as the BA4 and BA5 Omicron sub-variants disseminate.

    ‘Singapore, which is close to us, sees a high increase in cases’, the Minister added, referring to the neighboring destination that has removed all testing for vaccinated travelers a couple of months ago. ‘Malaysia also reports a high case surge’, he stressed, mentioning yet another country that has eased testing rules, asking ‘all to be disciplined’.

    Aerial View Of Tamblingan Lake, Bali, Indonesia

    If the data shared by Reuters is anything to go by, the Covid situation in Indonesia has a tendency to aggravate. Unless there is a clear shift in pandemic trends, vacationers with their hearts set on Bali, and who are yet to receive an additional dose, will need to update their vaccination card in order to be granted permission to travel.

    So far, Bali’s entry rules have not changed. The province still considers foreigners who have been given two doses of an approved vaccine to be fully immunized, and thus eligible to bypass both testing and quarantine orders, but the fact that Indonesian Ministers are openly discussing tightening existing rules should not be overlooked.

    Woman Holding International Certificate Of Vaccination For Coronavirus On Mobile Phone App Inside Airport

    What Are The Rules For Visiting Bali Right Now?

    Currently, in order to enter Bali, travelers must show one of the following documents at the border:

    • A vaccination certificate (two doses are enough for now)
    • A recovery certificate issued up to 30 days before departure

    Those who fail to produce one of the above will have to undergo testing on arrival, and observe a five-day quarantine until a second RT-PCR test is performed prior to release. We do not know, at this point, whether the non-vaccinated, or those holding a recovery certificate, will be allowed to enter Bali if a booster mandate is issued.

    Young Female Traveler With A Backpack Watching Closely The Departure Information Board At The Airport

    Entering Indonesia now, most travelers, regardless of vaccination status, must apply for a Visa On Arrival costing IDR 500.000, or USD 33.76. U.S., Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand and European Union citizens are all eligible to obtain this entry permit once landing in Bali, or eight other entry points across Indonesia.

    The full list of destinations granting this visa is available below:

    • Soekarno Hatta DKI Jakarta
    • Ngurah Rai Bali
    • Kualanamu North Sumatra
    • Juanda East Java
    • Hasanuddin South Sulawesi
    • Sam Ratulangi North Sulawesi
    • Yogyakarta Yogyakarta
    • Hang Nadim Batam, Riau Islands
    • Zainuddin Abdul Majid West Nusa Tenggara
    Woman Looking Tired At The Airport Leaning Against Her Own Backpack Ahead Of International Travel

    The visa is valid for up to 30 days, and can be extended once a traveler is inside Indonesia. Those seeking an extension must submit an application to the Immigration Office, requesting an additional 30 days. When planning to stay longer, digital nomads will soon be able to apply for a 5-year visa to reside in Bali, tax-free.

    Lastly, tourists must install the Peduli Lundungi application ahead of flying to Bali, and may be subject to a temperature check once landing. There may be different requirements in place across separate provinces, including mandatory proof of a booster dose in order to travel to select domestic destinations.

    For that reason, tourists planning to travel beyond Bali are advised to contact their airlines for more information.

    Read More:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    Bali: Top 10 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting

    CDC Lowers Covid Health Risk For 6 More Countries

    Thailand Lifts All Mask Requirements Both Indoors And Outdoors

    Americans Can Travel To These Destinations Without A Passport

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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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  • Bali: Top 10 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting

    Bali: Top 10 Things Travelers Need To Know Before Visiting

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    A tiny island with a big heart, booming tourism, and lots to discover – who doesn’t love Bali?

    If you haven’t traveled to Bali (yet), or are planning to sometime soon, we’ve put together this guide on the top things travelers need to know before visiting this Indonesian island that’s also known as the “island of the gods.”

    Whether you’re looking to plan a two-week getaway to Bali or stay for a while as a digital nomad, keep this guide that’s filled with insider tips that are important to know when visiting Bali. This post has travel tips such as:

    • How the WiFi is in Bali
    • Important customs to follow
    • How much to budget for your trip
    • The trendiest things to do in 2022

    Here are the top 10 things travelers need to know before visiting Bali.

    Woman from behind with a hat and backpack walking towards a temple in Bali

    How hard is it on the wallet?


























    Rating: 2 out of 5.

    Bali is more expensive than other parts of Indonesia, and it’s one of the relatively more expensive places to travel to in Southeast Asia, but compared to Europe or North America, it’s a dream!

    For long-stay tourists, the cost of living in Bali is that it will vary depending on where you’re staying. According to the website Nomadlist, the average monthly cost of living in Canggu is around $1,500 USD per month. Ubud is just a little less at $1,376 per month on average. If you head north to the town of Lovina, costs will be much lower. It depends on where you want to visit and what you want to experience in Bali. Let’s break down the costs to give you a better idea.

    Hotels: A mid-range hotel (sometimes with a pool) can range between $25-50 or more per night. If you want to stay longer in Bali, there’s a possibility to rent a villa and this will help cut some costs in the longer term.

    Food: A local meal can be found for less than $4, and you can also splurge at a beach-side restaurant on a $20 meal (appetizers included).

    Transportation: Being an island, the main way to get around in Bali is by motorbike. A scooter rental will set you back anywhere between $40-70 per month, and daily rentals shouldn’t cost you more than $5.

    Bali tourists

    How Friendly Are The Locals In Bali?


























    Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

    In general, Balinese people are friendly, open, and welcoming people. Their traditional culture and way of life means that there are lots of customs and etiquette to abide by, but travelers to the region typically feel safe and welcomed on the island.

    This is a tricky thing to generalize because everyone’s travel experience is different. But if you are respectful to the locals you will be given the same treatment right back, which is similar to most places around the world.

    That being said, the expat and traveler community in Bali is very tight, so you can easily make friends with other travelers here.

    Bali-local-praying-1

    Bali Customs & Culture

    This is probably the most important section on our list! Bali is a sacred island with lots of customs that locals live by every day. While there’s been a massive influx of travelers and expats arriving on the island for decades now, the Balinese try to preserve their culture. 87% of the people in Bali currently identify as Hindu and it’s also the only place in Indonesia where the population is predominantly practicing Hindus.

    Here’s a rundown of the top customs and etiquette practices to follow when visiting Bali:

    • Don’t point at anyone.
    • Don’t touch the head of a local (so, like, don’t go patting random kids on the head even if they are super cute).
    • Take off your shoes when entering a local’s home.
    • Don’t let your foot soles show while sitting.
    • Don’t cross your arms or put your hands on your tips (these are seen as aggressive postures).
    • Be mindful of the offerings on the ground and don’t crush them.
    • Don’t engage in a political discussion or activity, especially with any locals (you might be in the clear, but it is much more serious for the locals).

    Temple etiquette:

    Temples are superfluous in Bali, so following the right protocol when visiting a temple is super important.

    • Take off your shoes before entering.
    • Dress modestly. Keep your shoulders and legs covered.
    • Put on a sarong to cover your legs when entering a temple.
    • According to religious teachings, women on their periods can’t enter any temples or other sacred places of worship.

    Top Trending Things To Do In Bali

    The Monkey Forest Sanctuary: You’ve probably seen it on Instagram, and it’s also a must-do when visiting Bali. After visiting Monkey Forest, you can easily fill your days in Bali enjoying the island’s many beautiful beaches and temples. Some of the most notable temples are Gunung Kawi Temple near Ubud and Pura Lempuyang Luhur, which is located along the eastern tip of the island.

    If you want to get a little under-the-radar, the West Bali National Park covers an area of over 70 square miles and serves as a sanctuary for over 100 species of birds, endangered plants, marine life, and so much more. Guides are available for hire at the park’s entrance, and most of the nearby hotels also arrange tours of the park.

    Is Bali Safe For Travelers?


























    Rating: 4.5 out of 5.

    Bali consistently rates as a safe destination for international travelers. Reported muggings and other crimes are relatively rare, but it’s still important to exercise a normal amount of caution when traveling.

    The biggest safety issues that most travelers experience in Bali is actually with transportation. Bali is filled with narrow, winding roads that aren’t great for walking and can be tricky when driving a scooter. Make sure to be careful when walking along a main road and when driving a motorbike because lots of accidents do occur, especially among tourists.

    Bali is also a safe destination for women travelers. Just make sure to respect the local customs and don’t dress too immodestly when venturing outside of the beach or pool area. Walking around during the day you won’t have any issues, but make sure to have your wits about you if you find yourself wandering at night.

    Mount Agung, an active volcano on the island, has been sputtering throughout these past few years. While smoke and ash have halted flights and dissuaded tourists from coming at times, the danger has not reached the hotel zones.

    Travel insurance tips for your trip:

    Remember, travel insurance is always a good idea when going on any type of trip. Get yourself covered (at a super low cost) with the right health insurance in case of a motorbike accident or if your belongings get stolen or lost at some point during your trip.

    Local Eats In Bali

    While some cafes in Bali can do a pretty good smoothie bowl, that’s surprisingly not the main dish on the island.

    When it comes to local Balinese food, indulge yourself in a mouth-watering satay (meat or veggie meat on a stick with a spicy peanut buttery sauce), Lawar (finely chopped meat and vegetables mixed with shredded coconut), and of course, Nasi Goreng (fried rice, Indo style). Nasi means rice in Bahasa Indonesia, one of Bali’s two main languages. So, it’s safe to say that you’ll never pass a market in Bali or the rest of Indonesia without seeing some sort of Nasi dish.

    plate of Nasi Goreng, a staple dish in Indonesia

    What Are The Best Apps For Bali?

    Grab is the Southeast Asian version of Uber, and this app is essential when visiting Bali. Use Grab to find a motorbike taxi to take you to your destination.

    Very popular in Bali, Go-Jek is your all-in-one ride share and delivery app. This app has a handy list of restaurants and grocery stores and you can order anything for delivery straight to your door.

    Insider tip: Travelers should be aware that in some cities of Bali, only local taxis are allowed. Make sure to ask an experienced traveler or local before requesting a ride share because the driver might not be allowed to enter the area.

    For messaging, WhatsApp is the main app used on the island. If you haven’t already, download this app to your phone before your trip.

    people on motorbikes driving through the misty fog in Bali, palm trees in the background.

    How’s The WiFi Situation?


























    Rating: 3 out of 5.

    Especially amongst the digital nomad community, Bali is well-known for its buzzing coffee shops and co-working spaces with excellent WiFi (and strong coffee to boot). That being said, the WiFi connection in Bali depends on where you are on the island.

    According to Nomadlist, the average WiFi speed in Bali is 6 mgps. In general, the towns on the southern tip get much stronger connections than towns in the north.

    If you really need a strong WiFi connection, consider investing in a pocket WiFi for your trip. Check with local providers XL, Telkomsel, and Smartfen and inquire about their pocket WiFi rentals.

    Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, Hindu temple on Bratan lake landscape at sunrise in Bali, Indonesia.

    What Are Some Of The Top Experiences?

    From fire dances at sunset to sunrise hikes on volcanoes, Bali is filled with unforgettable experiences. And now that the island has finally reopened to international travelers, it’s time to get out there and enjoy them all.

    If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, there are plenty of tours available where you can hike up to the scenic Mount Batur with a group and with the help of a guide. For some culture, head to Uluwatu Temple and check out a local Kecak Dance performance at sunset. Or, check out this Ubud secret waterfalls & Instagram tour on Airbnb.

    How Long Can I Stay?

    Indonesia’s visa-on-arrival program allows tourists from the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and a number of other nations to visit the country for 30 days, and this includes Bali. While there have been reports of tourists in the past extending their visa multiple times, this is no longer allowed.

    According to the latest guidance, your 30-day visa can only be extended once, which would give you 2 months in total in Bali.

    Bali international tourists wearing purple sarongs at a temple overlooking the ocean on a clear day.

    Whether you’re a surfer always in search of the best waves, a backpacker on a mid-range budget, or a vagabond with a laptop and a yoga mat (or somewhere in between) Bali is a great place to relax, unwind, and learn about one of the world’s most fascinating and historic cultures.

    And with the new 5-year digital nomad visa in the works, there might just be another reason to plan a longer trip to Bali in the near future.

    Read More:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    Top 10 Things Travelers Need To Know About Visiting Playa Del Carmen

    Ultimate Bali Travel Guide – Complete Insider Tips

    Should You Take a Taxi, Uber or Grab in Bali

    The Bali Sun- Daily Local News in English

    ↓ Join the community ↓

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

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

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

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

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    If you’re planning a trip to Europe this summer, you might be in for long travel delays and there are a few airports across the continent you may want to avoid.

    Europe has been inundated with travel interruptions that have caused headaches and frustration for hundreds of thousands of people in the past few weeks alone. Things aren’t getting better either. In fact, it may be getting worse.

    Airports in Europe are struggling to keep up with traveler demand.

    There are a few European airports travelers may want to avoid this summer if they want to steer clear of the chaos that is looming over the travel industry.

    unrecognizable silhouettes of people in the airport lounge

    Every day it feels like there’s another issue at a major airport across the globe. From flight cancellations, and hour-long delays, to airline strikes that cripple entire operations.

    Traveling in the summer of 2022 is back but it’s not going to be easy.

    In the front of it all is Europe, home to the 5 most visited countries in the world. Each year Europe welcomes north of 700 million tourists, and this summer is bound to be a record year for international travel to the historical continent.

    London Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted Airport

    Airports throughout the U.K. including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and many more have been hot-spots for thousands of cancellations over the past weeks.

    British Airways has been forced to cancel around 8,000 flights between March and October.

    This decision was largely affected by the government’s involvement, urging airlines to cancel flights preemptively in order to prevent further chaos across U.K. airports.

    The government wasn’t the only one asking, Heathrow airport which is the U.K.’s busiest airport with 1,300 daily flights, asked airlines to cancel around 10% of flights just earlier this week.

    This isn’t even the worst of it, just this past weekend, travelers at Heathrow had to wait for hours to retrieve their luggage, ruining and delaying entire trips.

    Meanwhile, Gatwick Airport, Britain’s second-busiest airport, announced that I will put a cap on departures and landings this summer. 825 departures and landings will be permitted in July, and 850 daily operations will be allowed in August.

    The airport is hoping that with this limit, airlines will be able to better handle travelers during the peak summer season.

    Long Queue Of Passengers Wearing Face Masks At UK Border, London Heathrow Airport, London, England, United Kingdom

    Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport

    The Netherlands’ biggest airport is putting a limit on how many passengers will be permitted to fly out of the airport this summer. This comes after passengers have had to wait for hours outside the airport just to make it to the ticket counters, let alone make their way through security.

    Main entrance to Schiphol Airport on July 31, 2014 in Amsterdam, Netherlands

    The airport and airline cited staffing shortages as the culprit and will also put a limit on the number of daily flights in and out of the airport.

    El Prat airport in Barcelona, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca

    Easy Jet, a popular low-cost airline in Europe is facing difficulties with its Spanish cabin crew. Unions have urged cabin crews based in Spain to go on strike for nine days in July over ongoing pay disputes.

    Despite the airline’s assurances that a strike would not impact airport operations throughout the country, it is unclear how a staff walkout could not impact flight operations given the already low amount of staff airlines have at their disposal.

    EasyJet Airbus A320 airplanes tails at Berlin Tegel airport

    Staff at El Prat airport in Barcelona, Malaga, and Palma de Mallorca are expected to go on strike from 1-3 July, 15-17 July, and 29-31 July.

    Other European airports are at risk as well.

    Lufthansa has also announced that it will cancel almost 1000 flights in July due to staffing shortages. This will mainly affect Germany’s two major airports in Frankfurt and Munich.

    Travels may want to avoid those two airports, especially on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, as the airline announced cancellations will be affecting the weekends.

    Lufthansa a380 aircraft in the sky

    Brussels, Belgium’s capital, and home to its largest airport is also facing severe travel interruptions with thousands of employees taking to the streets and striking the country’s labor laws. The airport has already seen the cancellation of at least 315 flights, affecting around 40,000 passengers.

    Similar strikes can be expected this summer.

    The immediate future of aviation across the globe.

    It turns out that in order to operate airports you need proper staffing, something that has been in short supply over the past 2 years. The global aviation industry lost around four million jobs since the start of the pandemic in 2020.

    Getting the right people to fill those jobs takes time – time that airlines thought they’d be having more of.

    Manchester Airport, United Kingdom - February 7, 2017: KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Boeing 737-700 moments after arrival.

    No one predicted such a high demand for travel in a post-covid world. Airlines certainly didn’t.

    It is unclear how long airlines and airports across Europe and beyond will need to get their staffing to proper levels, some experts believe it can take up to 12 months.

    The only thing travelers currently have control over is what airports they fly in and out of. Avoiding the major airports in the U.K. , Spain, and The Netherlands will be your best chance to lower the possibility of having to deal with flight interruptions.

    READ MORE:

    Passengers Missing Flights Across Europe After Travel Chaos At Airports Continue

    Travelers Will Face Mass Flight Disruptions Across Europe This Summer

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    ↓ Join the community ↓

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

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

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  • Bahamas Drops All Testing For Vaccinated Travelers

    Bahamas Drops All Testing For Vaccinated Travelers

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    The Bahamas has become one of the latest destinations around the world to drop its Covid-19 testing requirements for travelers who are fully vaccinated against the virus. The Caribbean tourist hotspot, famed and adored the world over for its pristine, palm lined white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, made the announcement during the week, and will be hoping that the easier entry requirements will lead to a surge in the number of travelers heading there over the summer. 

    The move will be warmly welcomed by travelers and businesses on the islands alike, with The Bahamas previously being one of the few Caribbean islands to still have such strict entry requirements in place and suffering as a result of it. Here’s a look at what exactly is set to change regarding entry requirements in The Bahamas, and which travelers are affected by the country’s latest changes.

    Bahamas Travel Made Easier – Information For Travelers

    For decades now, The Bahamas have been the byword for the perfect Caribbean getaway. Featured on the front covers of travel guides and magazines the world over, the 700 plus islands of The Bahamas have welcomed tourists in great numbers, with more than 7 million taking the trip back in 2019. Whilst the pandemic and the restrictions that came with it have seen travel figures shrink, recent changes by the country could see that change this summer. 

    Last week, the government of The Bahamas revealed that they would no longer be requiring fully vaccinated foreign travelers to present proof of a negative Covid-19 test result to enter the country – making vacations to the country much easier and much more attractive for millions of travelers. The change of policy went live just yesterday, meaning travelers can now benefit from the change of restrictions and will only have to show proof of vaccination prior to boarding their flights to the country.

    For unvaccinated travelers, there are still some hoops that need to be jumped through in order to be able to enter the country. Unvaccinated travelers aged 2 and above will be required to obtain a negative Covid-19 test result and present it check-in before being able to travel to The Bahamas. Travelers may use either a negative RT-PCR test or a Rapid Antigen test, but it must be taken within 72 of travel to be valid.

    Thankfully, there are some exceptions to the rules that will be welcome by travelers with families. Children under the age of 2 are exempt from any testing requirements and can enter freely without needing a test. Travelers will also be glad to hear that the requirement to take a Covid-19 test in order to take part in inter-island travel has also been scrapped, with travelers now able to travel freely between the country’s 700+ islands and 2000+ beaches without taking a test beforehand – regardless of their Covid-19 vaccination status. 

    The removal of the testing requirement for vaccinated travelers isn’t the only change The Bahamas made to streamline entry for travelers. The government also removed the requirement for travelers to apply for a Bahamas Travel Health Visa in order to enter the country – saving prospective travelers time, effort and money. This change applies to all travelers, regardless of vaccination status, and is effective now. 

    Speaking about his country’s changes, Chester Cooper,the  Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation in The Bahamas, said:

    “The Bahamas is adapting to the continued evolution of this pandemic. We want to streamline the entry process for travelers as much as possible, all while ensuring we are protecting public health. We hope the changes to the pre-travel testing requirements combined with the elimination of the Travel Health Visa will reduce friction for travelers and further the recovery of our tourism sector.”

    Read More:

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    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    This Is The Best Beach In All Of Mexico According To Tripadvisor

    ↓ Join the community ↓

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

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

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  • Uber Will Allow Travelers To Book An Airport Ride 30 Days In Advance Amid Summer Travel Chaos

    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.

    Tourist Waiting For Their Airport Transfer Leaving An International Airport

    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:

    Smiling Taxi Uber Driver Taking Female Passenger To Her Destination

    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.

    Traffic Jam During Rush Hour, Road Trip Travel Chaos Concept Image

    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.

    Side Of Black Uber Car Parked On A Pathwalk As Cyclist Passes By In An Unspecified Location

    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

    Female Traveler Holding On To Luggage While Staring At The Airport Runway

    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.

    Passengers Transiting Austin-Bergstrom Airport, Austin, Texas, United States

    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.

    Family Approaching Departures Terminal At International Airport In 
An Unspecified Spanish Speaking Country

    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.

    CUstomer Requesting An Uber From The Streets Of New York City, United States

    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.

    Read More:

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    Uber Announces New Travel Services For Your Next Trip

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    Uber Looks To Add Flights, Trains, Hotels and Car Rentals To App

    Uber and Lyft Remove Mask Mandate In The United States and Canada

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  • Airbnb Launches New Feature For Solo Travelers

    Airbnb Launches New Feature For Solo Travelers

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    Solo travel is skyrocketing among all ages and large companies are looking to adapt to the growing trend. A few weeks ago the cruise line Oceania Cruises announced new cabins for solo travelers, and now Airbnb has developed a new feature for this type of traveler.

    On Monday, the American company Airbnb announced a new safety product for solo travelers in a press release, an in-app feature that will help solo travelers have safe and secure experiences.

    According to the information shared on the official website, the company noticed that in 2021 about 26% of nights booked were for solo travelers, and during the first quarter of 2022 that number has increased: over 50% of the nights registered for long-term stays were booked by solo travelers.

    Airbnb stated: “As the ‘live anywhere’ phenomenon has taken off among people who are able to work remotely, our platform has become increasingly integral to solo travelers.”

    One of the main concerns for solo travelers is safety, and that is why Airbnb’s Trust team has been working since 2021 on a new product to guarantee safe and secure experiences. This new feature is now available for English-speaking guests. 

    How The New Feature For Solo Travelers Works

    The new feature for solo travelers will activate when a guest books a private or shared room. The specialized in-app experience, as Airbnb calls this new feature, will show the solo traveler “expert tips” to help them stay safe. 

    Solo travelers will now be able to share where they are staying and their reservation itinerary with family and friends. Trusted people will be able to see the address, check-in and check-out dates, and reservation codes. 

    After a guest has booked a room, the new feature will also provide automated prompts and help solo travelers ask relevant questions based on research and other travelers’ experiences in that location. “Is there anything I should know about the neighborhood?” and “will you be available if I need help during my stay” are two examples of the questions the app will tell travelers to ask their hosts. 

    With this strategy, they hope to build a safety net and encourage solo travelers to book comfortably: “Our hope is this new product will better equip solo travelers on Airbnb to be more informed travelers by getting their pre-trip questions answered, giving them a better understanding of their surroundings, and informing the important people in their lives about where they will be and for how long.”

    The new in-app experience is only available in English, but Airbnb hopes to expand to other countries and languages soon. Another specialized experience for women is part of the company’s main concern, but for now, the new feature will be available for all solo travelers regardless of their gender identity. 

    Airbnb’s New Updates And Features

    Airbnb has been very active recently including new features to their app, sharing relevant travel data, and even making major updates to their platform. The company has recently included new buttons and categories for its over 6 million listings to provide more exciting and interesting options for travelers, such as the OMG homes. 

    Now that the pandemic is more under control and more travelers want to explore the world and work remotely, the company has been adapting to satisfy current travel needs. Airbnb has already heard and acted to satisfy remote workers’ needs and constantly updates COVID-related measures depending on local restrictions and worldwide health developments.

    The current concern seems to be safety, so besides the new solo traveler feature, the company has also recently added a 24/7 safety line for travelers, a  Local Emergency Services in-app experience to reach emergency services locally—recently extended to 70 countries— and now users can also add an emergency contact to their profile to help the company reach out to a friend or family member in case of emergency. 

    Read More:

    Airbnb Makes Major Updates To Platform And Adds New Features For Travelers

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19

    Oceania Cruises Adds Cabins For Solo Travelers, Expands Eco-Friendly Tours

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  • Disney​​ To Launch Newest Cruise Ship – Here’s What Travelers Can Expect

    Disney​​ To Launch Newest Cruise Ship – Here’s What Travelers Can Expect

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

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

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

    Disney’s Latest Ship – Information For Travelers

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Young Female Traveler Enjoying A Mediterranean Cruise On The Stern Of A Boat In Marmaris, Turkey

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

    Read More:

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

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

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

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  • American Airlines Launches Flights To Barcelona As Spain Reopens For All U.S. Travelers

    American Airlines Launches Flights To Barcelona As Spain Reopens For All U.S. Travelers

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    Following a 32-month pause, American Airlines is finally reinstating its seasonal flights to Barcelona for summer 2022. Since June 3, U.S. citizens have been able to fly nonstop between Chicago and Spain’s leading tourist destination, as the American carrier opens up yet another route for Europe-bound vacationers.

    Couple Of Female Tourists Taking A Selfie At La Sagrada Familia In Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

    A metropolitan city extremely rich in History and ideal for sightseeing, Barcelona sits on Spain’s eastern coast, being the gateway to the autonomous region of Catalonia. Even though Madrid is the number one city in Spain, Barcelona houses some of its most iconic landmarks, including La Sagrada Familia and several Gaudi monuments.

    Travel Demand Is Back Now That Most Covid Rules Are Scrapped

    Female Tourist Reading Map While Exploring The Latin Quarter In Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

    Tourism in Europe may have come to a standstill throughout the Covid crisis, but now that the continent is opening its borders once more and dropping most entry requirements, demand for travel is shooting up dramatically. Similarly to other European nations, Spain has also eased its travel rules recently.

    Once the Mediterranean hotspot signaled it was moving away from its once-strict Covid policies, American Airlines was quick to relaunch service between two of the busiest airports in the United States and Spain. This means nonstop flights to Barcelona are officially back to Chicago O’Hare International (ORD), just in time for summer.

    Tail Of American Airlines Aircraft Parked In Miami International Airport

    The last time American offered service on this route had been October 2019, prior to Covid being declared a pandemic in early 2020. While the virus was yet to be controlled, and more disruptive variants kept surging, the route remained unavailable. For two consecutive summers, American Airlines customers based in Chicago were unable to reach Barcelona directly.

    That is no longer the case.

    American Airlines Ends Two Year Hiatus As Barcelona Route Is Relaunched

    Aerial View Of Barcelona Eixample District, Catalonia, Spain

    The hiatus ended last Friday (3) when American resumed operations on its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, carrying 234 passengers. Similarly to pre-pandemic summers, the Chicago-Barcelona flights will run through October 29, 2022, when the summer/fall tourist season ends in Spain and Europe on an extent.

    The AA40 flight leaves Chicago (ORD) at 17:35, arriving to Barcelona (BCN) the following day at 9:00, on a daily frequency. Returning to America, the AA41 flight departs from BCN at 11:35, landing in ORD at 14:35 local time, also daily. Depending on date selection and seating, one-way Economy tickets can range between USD 823.59 and USD 2.819,25.

    Silhouette Of Man Observing A Fleet Of American Airlines Airplanes At Chicago O'Hare International Airport

    Besides Chicago, American is also offering flights to Barcelona from 3 other U.S. hubs, including Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), and Philadelphia (PHL). On top of that, the carrier operates on five other routes to Madrid, Spain’s capital: those flights leave from Charlotte (CLT), Dallas (DFW), MIA, JFK and PHL. Frequency is daily in all of them.

    Can Americans Visit Spain Restriction-Free?

    All Americans are eligible to visit Spain, albeit with different requirements based on vaccination.

    Woman Prepares For International Travel Holding US Passport And Luggage

    The fully immunized are no longer subject to pre-departure testing when boarding a flight to Spain, but the non-vaccinated remain subject to presenting either a negative PCR test result issued less than 72 hours before arrival, or a negative Rapid Antigen (24 hours).

    Irrespective of vaccination, U.S. citizens do not have to enter mandatory quarantine or undergo further testing when arriving to Spain. Additionally, Spanish authorities no longer require proof of vaccination to enter enclosed spaces, such as restaurants, travel on public transportation, or visit cultural venues.

    Young Female Traveler Enjoying A Glass Of Sangria In Spain

    Once they are in, all are welcome to explore the Iberian Peninsula’s leading nation hassle-free.

    While it has eased its strict Covid-era entry protocols, now allowing the unvaccinated to enter again by presenting negative tests, Spain has refused to drop the mask rule across public transport, including planes. This means mask usage is still necessary when riding on city buses, intercity trains, and when flying within Spain.

    What Are Some Of Barcelona’s Main Attractions?

    Girona, Catalonia, Spain

    Barcelona is an open air museum and one of Europe’s oldest cities. An intricate maze of narrow streets full of color and countless historical monuments. Housing the impressive Sagrada Familia, which will soon be finished after 144 years, the 13th century Barcelona Cathedral, and the picturesque Latin Quarter, it has enough sights to keep tourists busy for days on end.

    Close to Barcelona, popular day trips include visits to the Costa Brava, where charming seaside towns can be found along Catalonia’s Mediterranean coast, the medieval cities of Girona and Lleida, and even the small Catalan-speaking nation of Andorra, which borders Spain and France.

    Luckily, all these wonders are now only an 8-hour flight away from the U.S. with American Airlines.

    Read More:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    American Travelers Will Have Fast Track Entry When Visiting France This Summer

    Passengers Missing Flights Across Europe After Travel Chaos At Airports Continue

    Delta Says Flights Will See Record Breaking Price Increases This Summer Up To 30 Percent

    U.S. State Department Updates Travel Advisories For 10 Countries

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  • American Travelers Will Have Fast Track Entry When Visiting France This Summer

    American Travelers Will Have Fast Track Entry When Visiting France This Summer

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    Traveling abroad for summer 2022 will be much more challenging than initially expected, as countries struggle to keep up with a rising travel demand and staff shortages. Still, some destinations are better prepared than others, and are even simplifying entry for foreigners. This is the case with France, where Americans now enjoy fast track entry.

    Although many travelers are not even aware of this, France allows a number of foreign nationals to cross its borders without thorough checks – including U.S. citizens. While this policy has been around for some time, it was not until recently that it gained traction, as airports in Europe become overwhelmingly busy post-Covid:

    Young Female Traveler Standing On A Rooftop In Paris With A View Of The Eiffel Tower

    Americans Can Enter France Without Speaking To A Border Agent

    If you’re a regular traveler in the Old Continent, you may be familiar with the layout of European airports. Usually when landing in Europe, passengers have to stand in one out of two lines: the Europeans’ or the third country nationals’. Anyone who does not hold a passport from an European Union (EU) or EU-associated country is considered a third country national.

    Naturally, U.S., Canada, Australia and UK passport holders are all considered third country nationals, as they are not EU citizens. With the exception of Brits, who only left the EU recently, these travelers had been for years subject to long wait times until speaking to a border agent, who would then assess whether they would be allowed into France or not.

    Young Male Traveler Holding Up A US Passport And A Boarding Card At The Airport

    This is a very common procedure when traveling abroad, as it is a border agent’s job to verify the intentions of a traveler when visiting a country, and whether they meet certain criteria, including financial requirements. As EU citizens have the right to move freely in Europe, they are not subject to these checks and have always been eligible to use eGates.

    In France, they are part of an automated border control system called Parafe, which helps French authorities keep track of border crossings to and from France from outside the borderless Schengen Area. These ‘Eletronic Gates’ ensure faster entry when crossing EU borders, as passengers simply have to scan their passport to be allowed in.

    Traveler Using An EGate At An International Passport

    Surprisingly, France now allows select non-EU nationalities to scan their way into the country. In order to benefit from Parafe, and cross into France without speaking to a border agent first, travelers must simply be aged 18 years and older, and hold a valid biometric passport from one of the below countries:

    • EU nations
    • EEA nations (Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway)
    • Switzerland
    • Andorra
    • Monaco
    • San Marino
    • United States
    • United Kingdom
    • Canada
    • Australia
    • New Zealand
    • Japan
    • South Korea
    Young Female Traveler Checking Her Phone At The Airport

    This means that, even though they are not Europeans, Americans can still use eGates traveling to France at designated entry poins. More specifically, they are eligible for fast-track entry in 7 international airports, including the busy Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly, which both serve Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, Marseille and Nice.

    U.S. passport holders can also use automated eGates on at least 4 of France’s international train stations, mainly on United Kingdom-France routes. Those are Gare du Nord, in Paris, St Pancras International, on the British side of the border, the Terminal de Coquelles in France, and the Folkstone Terminal in England.

    Colorful Street In Nice, Cote DAzur, Southern France

    How To Use An eGate In 4 Quick Steps

    When using an eGate, travelers are advsied to follow these steps:

    • Remove glasses, scarves, hats and face masks
    • Place the passport photo page on the electronic reader
    • Stand on the footprints indicated on the floor
    • Look at the camera in front of you until the facial recognition process is complete

    If you’re successful, after a minute or two, the gates of France – and Europe on an extent – will open for you.

    Young Woman Enjoying The View From An Apartment In Paris, France

    Despite More Relaxed Entry Controls, Schengen Area Rules Have Not Changed

    Even though Americans are now guaranteed faster entry into France, this does not mean the rule is replicated in other European countries. With the exception of the UK, which also allows U.S. citizens to use eGates, we still have not heard of other European nations granting Americans (and Canadians on an extent) the privilege.

    Whenever traveling to France, Americans are again reminded that, even though they may no longer be required to see a border officer at specific entry points, they can only remain in the country (and the Schengen Area as a whole) for 90 days out of every 180-day period. For that purpose, the Parafe system will keep a record of both entry and exit dates.

    Arc De Triomphe At Night In Paris, France

    When caught overstaying, depending on the length of the illegal stay, Americans risk being fined, detained, or even banned from traveling to Europe for a few years. Any visit to the Schengen Area, which include France and 25 other countries, however short, counts towards your 90-days-out-of-every-180 limit.

    If in doubt, always use the official Schengen Calculator.

    Is France Open For Tourism Right Now?

    Plane Approaching Paris, France With A View Of The Eiffel Tower At Sunset

    Right now, France is open to Americans holding a valid Covid certification, and mainly those who are fully immunized. It is not yet part of the group of European countries that have completely removed entry requirements ahead of summer, but it has progressively eased restrictions over the last few months.

    Once in France, travelers are no longer required to wear face coverings indoors or outdoors, including in planes, and the Covid-era Pass sanitaire, France’s controversial vaccine passport, is also not in use. Right now, your main concern traveling to France is the rapid spread of monkeypox and the increasing risk of travel disruption due to understaffed airports.

    Read More:

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    These Are Your Top Underrated Summer Travel Destinations In Europe For 2022

    Americans Flying To The UK Risk Long Delays At Border And Flight Cancellations

    The Top 5 Most Affordable Summer Destinations In Europe For 2022

    Hotel Prices Across Europe Surging To Record Highs

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  • Wyndham Launches New App Feature To Help Travelers Plan Road Trips

    Wyndham Launches New App Feature To Help Travelers Plan Road Trips

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    After staying at home during the pandemic for two years, travelers want to go out and explore the world. They have been planning more road trips than ever and many businesses in the travel industry know it. This is why the American hotel company Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is launching a new feature called “Road Trip Planner”.

    The new mobile app feature, integrated with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts app, helps travelers plan their next road trip and includes interactive tools that allow users to book hotels, choose from different itineraries and discover new travel opportunities. 

    According to the information provided by the company in the press release, recent research for their American Road Trip Index revealed that 80% of Americans are planning to take a road trip in 2022, but 66% feel overwhelmed and don’t know how to plan it. 

    Wyndham Hotels & Resorts —considered the largest hotel franchise in the world with hotels in more than 95 countries and over 6,000 in the United States— wants to provide a technological solution for travelers. 

    Jessica Davidson, senior vice president, digital, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts said: “With thousands of hotels across our country’s highways and byways and 22 trusted brands, there is no company better positioned to help travelers experience the road trip of their dreams.”

    beautiful road in alaska

    And added: “With Road Trip Planner, travelers enter a few details about the trip and instantly get an itinerary with all their hotel stops, bookable in one single transaction. It not only eases the stresses of travel planning but ensures the journey is as exciting as the destination.”

    It is not the only business that considered Americans’ increasing interest in road trip travel. Even Oscar-winning actor Kevin Costner recently launched an app called HearHere to reproduce audio with historical information related to the user’s current geolocation. 

    Wyndham Hotels & Resorts proposes an option that includes their popular brands —such as Days Inn, Super 8, Microtel, Baymont, La Quinta, Howard Johnson, and Travelodge— to provide “The Easiest Way to Book & Go” as their service mark states.

    More About Road Trip Planner

    The new digital platform will allow travelers to plan, create and book trips and multiple hotel stays at once. It offers features for different kinds of travel, from coastal road trips to national parks road trips to long-haul truckers’ itineraries. 

    Road Trip Planner will be integrated into Wyndham Hotels & Resorts app, created two years ago —which allows users to quickly book rooms in nearby hotels with the feature Lightning Book and check-in and check-out from the phone. 

    “Built upon the success and strong adoption of our mobile app, Road Trip Planner is the perfect complement to Lightning Book, which is our fastest way to book direct and enables guests to reserve a hotel in just a few taps. Now, whatever your travel preferences—be it booking last minute or planning far ahead—Wyndham has you covered. Summer, here we come!”, said Davidson.

    cars on a highway in Hawaii

    These are the main features included in the platform: 

    • Custom itineraries: Travelers can discover itinerary alternatives from location A to destination B and filter search considering the driving distance, pet-friendly locations, or preferred brands and amenities.
    • Recommended routes: after mapping a route, the app intelligence can recommend the best itinerary according to the user’s travel preferences.
    • Reservations details: travelers can view multiple reservations and make requests or lock up amenities before arriving.
    • Pay your way: the app offers different payment options, including cash and Wyndham Rewards points.

    This new feature can be a great alternative for different kinds of travelers —from those who prefer carefully planned itineraries to more spontaneous voyagers—, considering that it also offers different kinds of hotel experiences. But, it is especially useful for those looking to stay at economy and midscale hotels in the United States. 

    During summer, road trippers will have more options to plan, book, schedule, and take advantage of technology on their next adventure.

    Read More:

    Summer Travel 2022: 5 Epic Road Trips In The U.S. To Take This Year

    Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

    All You Need To Know About The Travel App Created By Kevin Costner

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