Vaccinated and Vaccicating and it feels so good!
The future of travel will be all about vaccinations.
International travel is ready for take-off and you can certainly be in the front of the line if you are fully vaccinated.
Many countries are making travel easier for people who have been double vaccinated and welcoming you back with open arms.
So, where can you go right now and what do you need to know before you fly?
Iceland was the first country to open up for US and UK vaccinated travelers
In mid March, Iceland opened up to fully vaccinated travelers from the US and the UK. When you fly, keep in mind that you will need proof of vaccination with a vaccination card. The card will allow travelers to skip the COVID-19 testing and quarantine measures. Health officials and travel experts still recommend getting tested before arriving in Iceland and to also get tested when you are back home. Yes, it’s always good to be on the safe side – and our smart efforts will help get travel moving again. Also, Iceland requires that your vaccine must be certified for use by the European Medicines Agency (Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer).
The Seychelles Islands opened up to travelers in January
The Seychelles islands made history in January: they were the first destination to welcome vaccinated travelers. Again, you will need proof of vaccination, and every traveler is still required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of arrival (both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers will not need to quarantine).
Get vaccinated, travel the world
There are scores of countries that are not promoting tourism, but you can visit them so long as you are vaccinated and carry a proof-of-vaccination card. If you are vaccinated, then you don’t need to worry about being quarantined.
Here is my hotlist of places to go:
Ireland: I just returned from an amazing two weeks in the emerald Isla and it was very easy to enter if you are fully vaccinated. They do ask for two of the same vaccines but on your certificate it doesn’t show your first dose. Also voted the best country in the world for Covid Response.
Uk: Yes finally the UK is open for tourism and is ready to welcome you back. Testing is required on day 1 or two after arrival and you preorder your test kit before filling out your PLF form.
Greece: I visited in August and it felt so great! Not too overcrowded and the people are so glad to have you back! Open for business and to travelers who are vaccinated.
Belize: Travelers who have been fully vaccinated two weeks before visit will be allowed entry and will not be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
Cyprus: Planning to soon accept tourists who are vaccinated and who will be allowed to skip the mandatory quarantine and testing rules.
Why you need to use a travel agent
As the vaccination numbers rise to the levels we were aiming for many are now looking at booking trips here at home and abroad.
I want to highlight a few important points. If you are thinking of making any travel plans at home or abroad, then work with a travel agent as they are in the know when it comes to travel restrictions and they can help you in the event rules change locally and internationally.
Here are a few tips when you are ready to book:
Check the requirements of the country you are planning to go to.
Print your Vaccine certificate and laminate it as you will need to produce it often.
Take a photo of all your documents you regularly need to show such as ID, Vaccine certificate and PLF form
Check the COVID response in the country you are travelling to and the hospitalizations - you may be confident about not getting covid but is there space in the hospital of you break a leg?
Make sure your booking is flexible
Get insurance and check the coverage.
Like millions of others, I am excited to be traveling again. I made my first international trip in July to Italy which was easy and fantastic.. then next to Greece in August and again to Ireland in September. It was all safe, easy and open for business.
It’s been a long ride, one that will soon be over.