As a rule of thumb, do not travel to that remote paradise or jungle destination you saw online if a local tells you not to. Most of the unfortunate situations that have happened to tourists in Colombia are due to travelers going to places against the locals’ advice.

With a seven-color sea (San Andrés), a rainbow river (Caño Cristales) and 54,871 registered species, 3,625 of them unique in the world, Colombia is one of the most amazing places in South America, and the country with the second largest biodiversity in the planet.

LATEST UPDATES / NEWS from COLOMBIA:

May 5 – Colombia presented a new “Security, Defense and Citizen Coexistence,” policy

The fight against deforestation is at the heart of Colombia’s new security strategy, but there are still a number of obstacles in the way of its execution.

In the policy of “Security, Defense and Citizen Coexistence,” presented by the Ministry of Defense on April 25, the concept of security was expanded to include environmental protection. The main goals are to combat illegal mining, manage climate change and stop deforestation.

The fight against deforestation will be led by local communities. The authorities will focus on those who finance deforestation instead of arresting small farmers.

March 21 – Colombian president accuses Clan del Golfo of breaking ceasefire

The Clan del Golfo, the country’s largest criminal organization, has broken a ceasefire, according to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, and if the attacks continue, there will be no chance for negotiations.

The Clan has been implicated in Colombia’s internal violence, which has claimed at least 450,000 lives.

In a radio interview, Petro blamed the gang for the destruction of an urban aqueduct in Antioquia province as part of roadblocks related to protests by informal gold miners.

Up to 300,000 people have been affected by the barricades in 12 towns in two provinces, causing shortages of food, medicine and fuel. Most of the barriers were removed by police last week.

February 16 – LATAM Airlines wants to acquire Viva Air

LATAM, Latin America’s largest airline, has announced its intention to acquire Colombian low-cost carrier Viva Air, becoming the third corporation in the region to do so.

LATAM Airlines Colombia, a subsidiary of the Chile-based LATAM Airlines Group, has announced its own plans to acquire Viva Air.

“In a written communication to the president of Viva Air Colombia … the company has informed that any transaction is subject to a financial analysis (which would be carried out expeditiously), an agreement between the parties, and the corresponding regulatory approvals,” LATAM said in a statement late on Tuesday.

The announcement omitted any financial data on the estimated value of a potential deal.

Important tips to keep in mind when traveling to Colombia

• Avoid crowds and protest areas.
• Keep an eye on local media for breaking news and change your plans accordingly.
• Maintain a modest profile.
• Keep an eye on your surroundings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it simpler for emergency personnel to locate you.
• Follow the State Department on Facebook and Twitter.
• Examine Colombia’s Country Security Report.
• Prepare a backup plan in case of an emergency. Check out the Traveler’s Checklist.

Silleteros are back!

520 florists participated in the 65th edition of the Silleteros Parade 2022 on August 15, attended by 800,000 spectators spread along one of the highways of the zero zone of Medellín.

This marked the return of physical attendance at the event in the city after two years of pandemic. The event highlights the farmers who came down from the mountain carrying their products. Today, they are beautiful flower arrangements that they carry along a route of 2.4 km along the banks of the Medellin River.

Is it safe to travel to Bogotá?

Bogotá is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in Colombia. Criminal acts such as terrorism are rare, but visitors should be wary of pickpockets,

Is it safe to travel to Medellin?

Medellin is the capital of Antioquia and the second largest city in the country. Again, beware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Is it safe to travel to Cartagena?

Internationally acclaimed Cartagena is a very safe city. Street vendors may try to rip you off for beer and other items. But just mention the police and prices will be lowered.

Why visit Colombia in times of COVID?

First of all, there are no entry restrictions in Colombia. Also, there is something for all types of travelers. From the Caribbean beaches and Andean mountain peaks to rainforests and other natural wonders. And, of course, coffee! In case you decide to visit Colombia this year, the CDC recommends you be vaccinated.

Update archives:

January 26 – 215 social leaders were murdered in Colombia in 2022

According to the Colombian Ombudsman’s Office, a total of 215 murders of social activists and human rights defenders were committed in Colombia in 2022, a significant increase from the 145 cases the previous year.

Since the Early Warning System began systematically logging these attacks in 2016, this is the year with the highest number of homicides. Official statistics show that a total of 1,113 social leaders were murdered during this period: 133 in 2016, 126 in 2017, 178 in 2018, 138 in 2020, and 145 in 2021.

«It is expected that the dialogues with the ELN and the bilateral ceasefire with other illegal armed groups will also mean a decrease in actions against social leaders and human rights defenders throughout the national territory and an end to this situation», said the Ombudsman, Carlos Camargo in statements to the radio station Caracol Radio.

December 8 – Department of State ranks Colombia at level 3 risk due to rise in crime and terrorism

Colombia may be losing its reputation as one of the best South American destinations for Americans because of numerous allegations of crime, including drug-related assaults and murders. A record number of visitors have been harmed this year; as many as 25 people have died while vacationing in Colombia as a result of the uptick in violence.

The U.S. government claims that Americans should “reconsider” their travel to Colombia because of “crime and terrorism.” The Department of State has classified all of Colombia as a Level 3, meaning that security is compromised, especially in some “high-risk areas,” unlike most states in Mexico, which currently fall under the acceptable Level 2 classification.

November 11 – President Petro calls for “total peace” to Colombia.

Since diplomatic ties between Colombia and Venezuela were cut in 2019, security along the border has deteriorated drastically, causing an increase in fighting and displacement as armed groups compete for the lucrative illicit trade in people and goods.

The National Liberation Army (ELN), the largest guerrilla organization active in the region, and the Colombian government plan to hold negotiations later this month, leaving people on both sides of the border optimistic that the decades-long cycle of war can be ended.

The first direct talks in six years took place Nov. 1, when newly elected Colombian President Gustavo Petro met his Venezuelan counterpart Nicolas Maduro in Caracas.

October 21 – 20 killed and 15 injured in Colombia bus accident

A bus overturned on the Pan-American Highway in southwestern Colombia, killing at least 20 people and injuring 15 others.

The bus was traveling between Tumaco, a port city in southwestern Colombia, and the touristic city of Cali, 320 kilometers northeast, when the tragedy occurred Saturday.

“Unfortunately, we have a toll of 20 people dead,” said Captain Albertland Agudelo of the Nariño department traffic police.

October – Hundreds of Environmental Defenders Were Killed in Colombia in the Last Decade, according to a recent report.

According to the most recent study by the British human rights NGO Global Witness, Colombia is the country with the second highest number of environmental leaders murdered in the last decade, after Brazil. Since 2012, a total of 1,733 activists have been slain globally, with Latin America accounting for 68% of all incidents.

Few murderers are brought to justice because governments fail to properly investigate the murders. According to the report, authorities either ignore or deliberately obstruct investigations into murders, typically  “due to the collusion between corporate and state interests.”

“All over the world, Indigenous peoples and environmental defenders risk their lives for the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss. Activists and communities play a crucial role as a first line of defence against ecological collapse,” said Mike Davis, Global Witness’ CEO.

September – 17 people have been murdered over the last three days in Colombia

Authorities in Colombia said at least 17 people have been killed in a series of violent episodes during the past three days.

Six people were shot dead by gunmen Monday morning in a bar in the tourist city of Barranquilla on Monday morning.

According to police, the attack on members of the rival drug trafficking organization Los Costeños was perpetrated by the powerful drug trafficking gang Gulf Clan.

A teacher, his wife and two children were killed Sunday morning by a group of attackers in the Santander region in the north of the country, according to local authorities.

In an apparent act of revenge, five Venezuelan migrants accused of being involved in the killings were killed by vigilantes.

August – Two Dutch tourists passed away in Cartagena

The mayor’s office of Cartagena reported the death of Dutch tourists Robert Gerrit Kootte and Nienke Guri Trishna Bawa, who are the subject of an investigation by the Attorney General’s Office.

According to the information known so far, the tourists arrived in the city on Saturday, August 20, and were taken by the emergency room to the Medihelp clinic on Monday, where they died.

On Monday evening, the death of the 29-year-old woman was registered, and on Tuesday morning her 31-year-old partner died.

According to the first versions, the tourists, who had been in the city since last weekend, would have died of poisoning.

The Honorary Consul is in contact with the family of the tourists providing full support.

July – The country is better than ever

After the presidential elections on June 19, 2022, where a certain political unrest was expected given that a left-wing candidate won for the first time in history, the country and its tourist cities have remained calmer than ever.

Those interested in visiting can take advantage of the great current currency exchange that favors Americans and Europeans mostly.

the weather is perfect and Colombians are happy to welcome tourists back with open arms

June – Presidential elections in Colombia

Presidential elections were held in Colombia on May 29, 2022. Since none of the presidential candidates received at least 50% of the vote, a runoff election between the two leading candidates, Gustavo Petro and Rodolfo Hernández Suárez, is scheduled for June 19, 2022.

This is the first time that a left-wing candidate could win the presidency, which has never happened before in the country’s political history. It is, therefore, to be expected that there will be some political unrest after June 19.

Tourists and other visitors are advised to take increased security precautions during the last 2 weeks of June.

May – Armed strike in Colombia

On Thursday, May 5, the Clan del Golfo, also known as the Gaitanista Self-Defense Forces of Colombia, called a “4-day armed strike.”

The pamphlet stated that it was forbidden to “open a business of any kind” and to “use any means of transportation.”

The statement ended with the threat of “unfavorable consequences” for those who do not comply with these measures.

“Armed strikes” in Colombia are defined as actions by illegal armed groups, such as guerrillas, paramilitaries or drug traffickers, in which they block roads, restrict mobility, threaten commercial establishments and force the suspension of classes at colleges and universities.

The armed strike has ended for now, but authorities are asking the public to exercise increased precautions when traveling to non-tourist cities in the coming weeks.

April 9 – Latest travel advice from the U.S. State Department

The U.S. State Department has issued a travel warning against Colombia “due to crime, terrorism, Covid-19, civil unrest and kidnapping,” which is true, if you are visiting far away places or flung urban ghettos that seem to attract some tourists for the wrong reasons.

The notice also warns against traveling to the departments (states) of Norte de Santander and Cauca (we locals agree!), with the exception of Popayán (Cauca), also known as the “White City” (yes, in the same sense as the Lord of the Rings).

Again, if you are in a city, in a town near a city, or on the Colombian Atlantic coast, there is no reason why anything bad should happen to you.

December 26 – First cases of Omicron detected in Colombia

On Monday, December 20, the first cases of the newly discovered Omicron variant were confirmed in Colombia. They were identified in a U.S. citizen and two Colombians visiting Cartagena and Santa Marta.

It was confirmed that the cases came from abroad – two from the U.S. and one from Spain. At the moment, there is no evidence of community circulation.

Even though the transmission rate remains relatively low in Colombia, the country’s Minister of Health Fernando Ruíz called out to its citizens to take extra safety precautions. He also recommended booster shots for everyone over the age of 18.

November 19 – Colombia now requires vaccination certificates to enter bars, restaurants, or venues

On Tuesday, November 16, Colombia began to require COVID-19 vaccination certificates to enter bars, restaurants, and other public venues, including cinemas, theaters, or sports stadiums.

The new measures apply to those 18 and over. Starting November 30, it will also affect children over 12 years of age.

The decision came along with the government’s aim to immunize all citizens against the virus. So far, only around 45% of Colombians and 6.4% of minors have been vaccinated fully.

Source: Republic World

October 11 – COVID-19 cases dropping in Colombia

Colombia suffered a spike in COVID-19 infections in mid-June when over 30,000 new cases were reported daily. However, since June 28, the number of infections has been dropping.

Yesterday, October 10, the country reported 1,587 new coronavirus cases, which is around 100 less than on the same day a month ago. Also, the number of deaths caused by the virus seems to be constantly decreasing. Yesterday, Colombia reported 38 COVID-19 fatalities, while a month ago, it was about 10 more.

Source: Worldometers

September 7 – Colombia reports the lowest COVID-19 death toll since June 2020

Colombia reported the lowest number of COVID-related deaths since June 2020, announced Fernando Ruiz, Colombian Minister of Health, on Sunday, September 5.

On that day, 48 patients died of COVID-19, while another 1,669 people tested positive for the virus. The country had not reported fewer than 50 fatalities attributed to coronavirus since June 13, 2020.

On the other hand, Colombia is concerned about the new, more contagious COVID-19 strains. And not only the Delta variant, which has been responsible for the current surges in cases in the U.S. and Europe. But also the Mu variant, which has recently been declared as ‘of interest’ by the WHO.

Source: Colombia Reports

August 22 – Colombia approved a third dose of a COVID-19 vaccine on August 21

Colombia approved a third booster dose of the coronavirus vaccine, confirmed the Ministry of Health Fernando Ruiz at a press conference on Friday.

Ruiz clarified that the third dose will be offered to residents with underlying conditions that “generate or lead to immunosuppression, such as heart, kidney, pancreas, lung, intestine, liver and bone marrow transplantation after the first two years.”

The official also mentioned that the government weighs the possibility of offering this benefit to the healthy elderly too. But it has not been confirmed yet. 

Source in Spanish: Europa Press

The post Is COLOMBIA Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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US Reopening Tourism – LATEST UPDATES and News:

May 2 – US to Scrap COVID-Vaccination Requirements to enter the country for all international travelers

As per a recent announcement by the United States Government, COVID-19 vaccination requirements for international travelers and federal workers will be lifted on May 11. 

When the public health emergency expires next week, the mandate associated with the coronavirus will be lifted, according to President Joe Biden and his administration’s health officials.

As reported by Reuters.com. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, non-citizens entering the country through land ports and ferries will no longer be required to be vaccinated against COVID -19 beginning May 12.

April 13: Biden Ends Covid National Emergency But Unvaccinated Travel Remains Banned

The White House announced that President Joe Biden has signed a bill to terminate the national emergency related to Covid-19 on Monday.

However, this termination will not affect the separate public health emergency which is scheduled to end on May 11. A White House official stated that the end of the national emergency will not disrupt the orderly winding down of authorities.

That being said, the bill won’t affect the ban on unvaccinated travelers to the U.S. until at least May 11.

The bill was passed with a bipartisan 68-23 vote in the Senate last month and was approved by the House earlier this year, with 11 Democrats voting in favor of the joint resolution.

April 3 – The Senate on Wednesday passed a resolution formally declaring an end to the COVID-19 national emergency.

A GOP-led resolution to end the COVID-19 national emergency that has been in effect since 2020 was approved by the Senate on Wednesday. 

The upper chamber approved the proposal by a vote of 68 to 23. The Senate last year approved an identical measure sponsored by Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), but the Democrat-controlled House of Representatives rejected it. 

This year, the House approved it by a vote of 229 to 197, with 11 Democrats voting with all Republicans. Last year, President Biden threatened to veto the bill. 

Instead of threatening a veto this year, he spoke out against the proposal in a policy statement before the House vote. 

On Wednesday, however, he said he would sign the bill. The national emergency will end then on May 11.

How can unvaccinated travel to the U.S.?

The only way unvaccinated travelers can visit the U.S. is to meet one of the exceptions. You can find all the details about exceptions on the C.D.C website.

Exceptions:

• Persons on diplomatic or official foreign government travel
• Persons with documented medical contraindications to receiving a COVID-19 vaccine
• Participants in certain COVID-19 vaccine trials
• Children under 18 years of age
• Persons issued a humanitarian or emergency exception
• Sea crew members traveling with to a C-1 and D nonimmigrant visa
• Persons with valid visas [excluding B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visas] who are citizens of a foreign country with limited COVID-19 vaccine availability (See list for updates effective June 28, 2022)
• Members of the U.S. Armed Forces or their spouses or children (under 18 years of age)
• Persons whose entry would be in the national interest, as determined by the Secretary of State, Secretary of Transportation, or Secretary of Homeland Security (or their designees)

U.S. Reopening FAQs

Some of the current carrier flying from Europe to the U.S.

• Lufthansa  United 
• Air Europa 
• Royal Air Maroc
• Air France
• Alitalia, Delta Operated by Alitalia CityLiner
• Delta
• KLM, Delta Virgin Atlantic
• Lufthansa, Air Canada 0perated by Air Canada Express – Sky Regional
• Lufthansa, Air Canada operated by Air Canada Express – Jazz
• Lufthansa, United operated by Mesa Airlines DBA United Express
• Tap Air Portugal
• Turkish Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic

US reopening borders for tourism: Update Archives

March 23 – The US health system will undergo big changes once the Covid emergency is over.

The decision by the Biden administration to formally end the covid-19 public health emergency in May will result in significant systemic changes that go far beyond the fact that many people will now pay extra for covid testing. For illustration:

Training Rules for Nursing Home Staff Get Stricter

Nursing facilities will need to uphold stricter standards for employee training once the emergency is over.

Treatment Threatened for People Recovering From Addiction

The Drug Enforcement Administration stated that during the public health emergency, medical professionals could prescribe specific banned medications remotely or over the phone without first conducting an in-person medical evaluation. Such practice will be over. 

March 8 – U.S. Will Scrap Covid Testing Requirement for Travelers From China

According to a person familiar with the plan, the Biden administration on Friday will abandon the requirement that visitors from China show a negative Covid 19 test before entering the country.

The decision to ease the ban was made as a once-huge viral wave in China began to subside and after other nations announced they were easing their own travel restrictions on Chinese citizens.

Scientists were virtually forced to infer the scale and severity of the outbreak, which began in December by filtering through claims on social media and other uncertain sources of information. 

February 21 – New York State to scrap requirement that masks be worn in hospitals

Health officials stated last week that New York State will no longer mandate masks to be worn in healthcare facilities including hospitals and nursing homes as of last week.

Following that, these establishments will be able to establish their own masking policies. The action harmonizes state policy with that of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which in September repealed the federal rule requiring masks in healthcare institutions.

Dr. James McDonald, the state’s acting health commissioner, said in a statement that “The pandemic is not over, yet we are moving to a transition.” He mentioned that it had been three years after the first Covid-19 case was discovered in New York on March 1.

The public hospital system in New York City will keep requiring that masks be worn inside of its buildings, an official said in a statement.

February 8: U.S. House Votes To Eliminate Covid Vaccine Mandates For Visitors

The House of Representatives has passed a bill that would remove the requirement for most foreign travelers coming to the U.S. to be vaccinated against COVID-19. It doesn’t mean travelers can now enter without a vaccine, the bill still needs to pass through the Senate and Biden for approval.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently mandates that all adult travelers who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents must provide proof of COVID vaccination prior to their flight. The bill was passed on Wednesday with a vote of 227-201, with seven Democrats aligning with Republicans in favor of the legislation.

February 6: U.S. to vote to end COVID vaccine mandate for foreign air travelers

The U.S. House of Representatives will vote this week on a bill to end the vaccine requirement for most foreign air travelers. The Biden administration dropped the COVID-19 test requirement but has not lifted the vaccine requirement from the CDC. The vaccine requirement applies to adult non-citizen/resident visitors to the U.S., with some exceptions. The measure to end the requirement was introduced by Republican Representative Thomas Massie.

January 20: Increased pressure on Covid mandates in Florida State

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently proposed a bill that would impose penalties on businesses that mandate their employees to wear masks or receive COVID-19 vaccinations. Additionally, the bill includes a provision that prohibits medical boards from disciplining doctors who disseminate false information about the virus.

The proposal would continue to prohibit vaccine and mask requirements in schools, government, employment, or for travel.

The Governor also wants to expand the sanctions on businesses by prohibiting employers from hiring or firing based on vaccine status or wearing a mask.

January 5: TSA extends ban on unvaccinated travel to USA

U.S. Government (TSA) extends the vaccine mandate for international traveling into the USA until at least April 10, 2023.

December 17: Congress clears military bill repealing vaccine mandate for troops

No information about the vaccine mandate for U.S. visitors was given at these recent press conferences.

November 2: Puerto Rico Officials scrap COVID-19-related domestic restrictions as of Oct. 31

Puerto Rican officials just lifted the island’s COVID-19-related domestic regulations as of Oct. 31. Facemasks are no longer necessary for attendees at events with more than 1,000 participants. Additionally, event goers are no longer needed to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result upon admittance.

Travelers must continue to adhere to the federal regulations for travel from countries other than the United States and its territories. Nonresident foreign nationals aged 18 and up must be properly vaccinated before flying into Puerto Rico. Vaccination is not required for children under the age of 18, and it is not required for air travel from the mainland United States. 

November 30: Biden signed a declaration to adopt vaccine passports with other leaders at the G20 summit

On November 21, thecentersquare.com reported that President Biden signed a declaration to adopt vaccine passports for international travel. Declaration was signed at the G20 summit in Bali along with other world leaders. This fact doesn’t suggest any plans to drop U.S. vaccine requirements in the near future.

November 10: TSA extended the vaccine mandate for non-US visitors

On November 7, the U.S. extended vaccine mandate for travelers until January 8. All non-US visitors still need to show a proof of the full vaccination against Covid-19. (Source: precisionvaccinations.com)

February 18 – The CDC considers lifting indoor mask-wearing mandate across the US

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) director may recommend the US to lift the need to wear face coverings in indoor settings, said CDC Head Dr. Rochelle Walensky during a White House briefing.

“We want to give people a break from things like mask wearing when these metrics are better, and then have the ability to reach for them again should things worsen.”

The CDC will review the number of severe cases and hospital capacity rather before making a final decision.
Also read: More US States Lifting Mask Mandates as COVID-19 Drops

January 15 – The US issues a “Do-not-travel” notice against Canada and Singapore

The CDC has issued the highest travel health advisory to Canada, Singapore and Curaçao due to the high incidence in COVID-19 cases in the previous week. 

The CDC currently lists about 80 destinations throughout the world as Level Four.

Canadian health officials forecast the Omicron wave peak at 170,000 cases a day this month, with 2,000 hospitalizations also per day.

The CDC will revisit this travel advice on Monday. 

Read our full post: CDC Warns Americans Against Travel to Canada

December 22 – US considers lifting travel ban on Southern African countries

The US is reportedly considering lifting its ban on Southern African countries over the next few days.

According to the government, “we’re letting in people from other countries that have as much or more infection than the Southern African countries.”

“We likely are going to pull back on that pretty soon because we have enough infection in our own country,” said Dr. Fauci at the National Press Club.

In less than three weeks, the Omicron variant already accounts for over 73% of the new infections in the U.S. said the CDC on Monday. (Source: Reuters.com)

December 4 – The US government tightens travel restrictions for all travelers 

All international arrivals are now required to present a negative COVID-19 test taken within 1 day of departure.

“Our doctors believe tightening testing requirements for pre-departure will help catch more cases, potential cases of people who may be positive and inside the country,” a White House official said.

Also, domestic travelers using all types of public transportation such as trains, cruise ships or domestic flights will have to wear a face mask at all times or face fines of up to USD 3,000. 

Read our full post: U.S. Announces New Travel Restrictions for All International Visitors

November 28 – The U.S. to ban all travel from South Africa and other 7 countries from Monday

The U.S. will ban travel from South Africa and other seven countries starting Monday as a new heavily mutated coronavirus variant emerges, announced White House officials on Friday.

Other countries included in the restriction are Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi.

National and residents are allowed to come back. 

“As we move forward,” said the President in a statement, “we will continue to be guided by what the science and my medical team advises.”

November 21 – The U.S. makes booster shots available to all people 18 and above

With an increasing number of countries requiring passengers to provide proof of booster shots to give them access to a number of tourist venues, the U.S.’s move to make booster doses available for most citizens brings relief for international travelers.

“Based on the compelling evidence, all adults over 18 should now have equitable access to a COVID-19 booster dose,” says the CDC.

Despite the fact that more than 195 million Americans are fully vaccinated, Covid cases are on the rise in some locations as vaccine effectiveness declines over time.

The Pfizer booster dose was found to be 95 percent effective in a clinical trial involving 10,000 people aged 16 and up.

November 13 – Travelers experiencing long wait times at U.S. airports

Following the reopening on Nov. 8, large numbers of overseas travelers have begun to arrive in American airports.

Although this is wonderful news for families and the tourism sector, 21 months of closure did not seem to be enough time for American airports to prepare for such a large influx of passengers all at once.

Thousands of travelers have complained about having to wait over two hours to get through customs. Things are expected to worsen as the Christmas holidays approach. 

“The expectation is that we could see wait times of up to eight hours,” said Sherry Stein, the leader (SITA).

November 5 – The U.S. to welcome EU travelers as soon as ports of entry open on Nov. 8

Beginning Monday, the United States will drop entrance restrictions for vaccinated EU and Asian travelers, putting an end to historic restrictions that have kept the country partially isolated from the rest of the world for almost 21 months. 

According to US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the U.S. will reopen its air and land borders as soon as ports of entry start operations on Nov. 8

That means that border crossings that are open 24 hours a day will accept international travelers from midnight, while the rest will open during regular business hours.

October 15 – U.S. Government announces the reopening date for the European Union

White House has confirmed the reopening date for international tourism, current travel curbs will be lifted on November 8. Both land and air borders will reopen to fully vaccinated travelers.

Non-vaccinated air travelers will be also able to enter but they will need to show proof of a negative Covid-19 test.

The ban on non-vaccinated travelers will still remain in place on the Mexican and Canadian land borders.

October – The United States, the last North American country requesting proof of vaccination

The United States is officially the last North American country to prevent unvaccinated travelers from entering the country.

As of today, visitors to the United States must present proof of a COVI-19 vaccination certificate to be allowed entry.

Over the past two years, the U.S. has banned travelers from the European Schengen area, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and Brazil from entering the country at various times.

But while it was once supported by its best allies, notably Canada, it now stands alone in its quest for Covid security.

October 20 – The U.S. is set to reopen land borders with Canada and Mexico in “early November”

The U.S. land borders, which have been shut down since March 2020, will reopen to Canadian and Mexican visitors at some point in November as long as they can prove they are fully vaccinated. 

“We are pleased to be taking steps to resume regular travel in a safe and sustainable manner,” Homeland Security Secretary said in a statement.

Essential travelers such as truck commercial drivers, students, and other essential personnel will have until January to present their vaccine certificates.

October 10 – U.S. Reveals the vaccines it will accept for EU travelers

There was a lot of uncertainty over which brand of vaccines the US would accept as a valid entry requirement for EU travelers, once it open its borders.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revealed the country will accept the following:

• Moderna
• Pfizer/BioNTech
• Janssen (Johnson & Johnson)
• AstraZeneca, including Covishield
• Sinopharm (Beijing)
• Sinovac

The CDC also informed that more information will be released as soon as the travel protocols are completed.

The reopening date has not been announced yet. 

October 2 – US, Canada, UK, and other G7 leaders met to discuss the future of international travel

Transport and health ministers of Canada, Germany, the U.K, the U.S, Japan, Italy, and France virtually met to discuss the future of international travel on Thursday. 

Among other things, the U.S. committed to a number of principles “for a safe and sustainable reopening of travel.” These include trusting scientific evidence, accepting both digital and non-digital test and vaccine passports, protecting users’ private data, and supporting cleaner technologies for land, air, and maritime transport.

September – US still requires Covid vaccine from non-US citizens

As of September 19, proof of Covid vaccination is still required for entry into the United States for all non-US citizens. There is no recent update from the government on when they are planning to drop this requirement.

Sept. 24 – The U.S. lifts the ban on European Travel but reopening date remains unknown

This week, the U.S. announced that its long ban on European travel will end in “early November”. But so far, they haven’t provided an exact reopening date yet.

The head of the White House’s COVID-19 Response Team, Jeff Zients, said that all travelers must be fully vaccinated, no exceptions. 

The CDC will order commercial airlines to collect information from U.S.-bound visitors including their phone number and email address to act as a “public health surveillance system.” 

More information about the date and the requirements is expected to be revealed over the next few weeks.  

Source: Reuters

September 16 – The U.S. works on a “new system for international travel” aiming to reopen borders

White House coronavirus response coordinator Jeff Zients said on Wednesday the country is working on a “new system for international travel” that will include contract tracing for international visitors when the country lifts its travel ban. 

The government aims to replace the current restrictions with a “safer, stronger, and sustainable” system. 

The official did not reveal when the new system will be put into motion or the metrics it will use.

Source: Reuters

September 21 – The U.S. to reopen for vaccinated EU and other travelers in November, says government

Jeff Zients, the White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator, announced that the U.S. will reopen to visitors from the European Union in “early November.”

Additionally, fully vaccinated travelers from other 33 countries including China, India and Brazil will also be allowed to come back. 

“We will move to this much stricter global system, so we will have a consistent approach across all countries,” Zients said.

Visitors will need to present proof of vaccination and a negative Covid-19 test. 

Source

September 10 – Nine EU countries have reimposed entry restrictions for American travelers in the last 10 days

On August 31, the European Council recommended removing the U.S. from the “save travel list.” Since then, 11 European countries have taken a stand on the U.S. situation.

As of today, Denmark, Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Germany, Czech Republic and France have enforced additional entry restrictions for Americans.

Netherlands, Spain, Czech Republic and France not only increased their restrictions but also completely barred the unvaccinated. 

Sweden and Bulgaria have indefinitely closed their borders to all U.S. arrivals. Croatia, Portugal and Ireland will remain open.

Read our full article: Which EU Countries are Open, Closed to American Visitors

August 31 – U.S. Updates Travel Advisory For Canada, Puerto Rico and Other Countries

Seven countries were moved up to Level 4 travel warning since they surpassed the limit of 500 new cases per 100,000 population over the last 28 days. 

The affected countries this time were Switzerland, Saint Lucia, North Macedonia, Laos and Estonia due to their COVID-19 reports; and Oman and Azerbaijan because of raising concerns about terrorism.

Additionally, other 12 countries were moved up or down to the Level 3 travel advisory (high level of COVID). 

Some of them because of their improvements in the fight against the pandemic, and some others like Canada and Germany because their efforts are not producing the expected results.

Source: TravelOffPath

August 19 – U.S. officials and border mayors demand the White House to reopen international borders

A number of U.S. officials and border mayors are joining forces to request the White House to lift the travel restriction that has been in place for 18 months severely affecting their local economies. 

A few weeks ago, Washington announced it will maintain restrictions on multiple countries and territories including the EU and China for the time being.

“The ultimate goal is to look for easing of restrictions on nonessential travel,” as well as the “specifics on what we can, need or must do to achieve that.” said San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria. 

The government has not replied yet.

Source: CNN

August 5 – the US works on a plan to request all international travelers to be fully vaccinated 

The U.S. is reportedly putting in place a new system requiring all international arrivals to be fully vaccinated so they can be allowed to travel into the country, a White House official told Reuters. 

“With limited exceptions (…) all foreign nationals traveling to the United States (from all countries) need to be fully vaccinated,” said the official.

He also added that “working groups” are getting ready for “when the time is right to transition to this new system.” However, the date when this plan will be set into motion was not released.

Source: Reuters

August 5 – the US works on a plan to request all international travelers to be fully vaccinated 

The U.S. is reportedly putting in place a new system requiring all international arrivals to be fully vaccinated so they can be allowed to travel into the country, a White House official told Reuters. 

“With limited exceptions (…) all foreign nationals traveling to the United States (from all countries) need to be fully vaccinated,” said the official.

He also added that “working groups” are getting ready for “when the time is right to transition to this new system.” However, the date when this plan will be set into motion was not released.

Source: Reuters

June – US Lifts Covid-19 Testing for International Travelers 

Travelers to the United States are no longer required to submit a negative Covid 19 test taken within one day prior to departure.  

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated on Friday that this requirement would be removed beginning early Sunday morning. The health service stated that it will continue to monitor the pandemic’s progress and reevaluate the need for testing if the situation changes.

“This step is possible because of the progress we’ve made in our fight against COVID-19,” said the U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra.

July 30 – Fully vaccinated Americans will be able to resume travel with the U.K. on August 2, but U.S. remains closed due to a delta variant and a surge in cases

While the U.S. continues to be closed for half of the world due to a surge in Covid cases, more countries have been adding it to the list of allowed visitors.

Effective August 2, double-vaccinated Americans and residents will be allowed to travel to the U.K. without quarantine. 

There is a catch. Americans should’ve been vaccinated in the U.S. or in one EU country.

Although these travelers no longer need to quarantine, they will still be required to submit a negative PCR COVID-19 test before boarding and take another one on the second day of their stay in England.

This scheme does not apply to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland for now.

Read our full post: U.K. drops quarantine for fully vaccinated Americans on Aug. 2

July 16 – The U.S. borders will not reopen for EU or other travelers for the time being

“It defies logic. It defies science. It defies fact,” Democratic Representative of New York, Brian Higgins told CNN, regarding the lack of transparency about the U.S. international borders reopening. 

Another White official said that European Union, United Kingdom, Canadian and Mexican task groups have met with their American counterparts to discuss the aspects that would allow them to safely reopen the country.

However, another White House official told Reuters that “the Biden Administration is not in a rush to lift travel restrictions soon.”

Source: TD News

July 9 – The U.S. can’t put a date on the international borders reopening, says government 

The U.S. is unable to put a date on international travel reopening according to a White House official who spoke to Reuters on July 7. 

“There are further discussions to be had before we can announce any next steps on travel reopening with any country,” said the official. 

This is the second time in less than 2 weeks that a Biden’s administration official speaks about the impossibility to determine when the country will reopen for tourism. 

On June 25, the US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken also told reporters they could not give an approximate date and that everything will “have to be guided by the science and by medical expertise.” 

As of today, Schengen area residents who are not American citizens are only allowed if traveling under the National Interest Exception (NIE).

Source: Reuters

June 25 – U.S. to resume international tourism after September 6, said U.S. Commerce Secretary

The long-awaited reopening to EU tourists may be about to be over. 

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo has stated the country is actively seeking to open travel bubbles with key partners so they can resume international travel soon.

Although not a specific date was announced, Raimondo mentioned Labor Day, which is celebrated on September 6, as the potential date for free foreign travel.

“I’m hopeful that post-Labor Day we will see a nice uptick in business travel and international travel” […] “I can promise that getting business travel and international travel going again is a top priority,” said Raimondo.

(Source: Business Travel News)

June 9 – U.S. to form task groups with Canada, Mexico, the EU and the U.K. to create a strategy to safely reopen borders soon

Multiple EU countries expected President Joe Biden’s announcement about the U.S. border reopening during his visit to the U.K. for the very first G7 summit of his administration.

But instead, the White house has issued a statement informing the country will not reopen just yet.

“While we are not reopening travel today, we hope that these expert working groups will help us use our collective expertise to chart a path forward, with a goal of reopening international travel with our key partners when it is determined that it is safe to do so,” reads the statement.

For now, the U.S. will form task groups with Canada, Mexico, the EU and the U.K to find the safest way to start international travel.

(Source: Reuters)

May 24 – The U.S. has not decided yet whether they will reopen to Europeans or not this summer

On May 19, all E.U. members agreed to welcome back Americans from June. E.U. countries can still enforce extra testing or quarantine requirements, but in principle, all vaccinated Americans will be allowed to visit Europe for tourism again. 

Unfortunately, on the other side of the Atlantic things seem to be different. Biden administration has been reportedly holding meetings and contacting tourism industry leaders but reopening decisions have not been made yet. 

Last week, White House spokesman Jen Psaki stated that no changes on current travel restrictions have been planned thus far when asked if the U.S. would allow vaccinated travelers to visit America Again. (Source: Reuters)

The post U.S. To End Covid Rules And Allow Unvaccinated Travelers From May 11 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Costa Rica is the only country in the world that has no army.

Thus, for those still wondering, yes, Costa Rica is very safe.

LATEST UPDATES / NEWS from COSTA RICA:

April 29 – Costa Rica named the best Latin America travel destination by the National Geographic travel readers’ choice awards

On April 25, 2023, Madrid hosted the National Geographic Travel Readers’ Choice Awards ceremony. A group of professionals involved in the selection process narrowed the field down to 55 finalists, and votes could be cast in the various categories. The resorts and businesses selected by readers shared the same selection criteria, which included sustainability, excellence and authenticity.

According to National Geographic, a trip to Costa Rica offers the opportunity to explore forests with amazing biodiversity, walk on beaches with mangroves and sand where turtles lay their eggs, and dive in waters so pristine that they are home to a wide variety of marine life.

In addition to Costa Rica, other countries competed for the award. In the same category, it fought against Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Oaxaca (Mexico), and Ecuador. But because of its remarkable natural beauty and conservation efforts, it was able to prevail.

March 23 – U.S. Issues New Travel Advisory For Costa Rica

Nearly 1.3 million Americans visited Costa Rica in 2022 due to its close proximity to the US.

Two weeks ago, the U.S. requested that visitors to Costa Rica take extra precautions, when it issued a Level 2 alert for the Central American nation.

The U.S. government has a four-level system to inform visitors about the safety situation in each nation:

• Level 1 – U.S. citizens should exercise normal precautions
• Level 2 – U.S. citizens should exercise increased caution
• Level 3 – U.S. citizens should reconsider travel plans
• Level 4 – U.S. citizens should not travel

On its website, the US Embassy in Costa Rica said:

“The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica advises U.S. citizens of increasing levels of crime, particularly violent crime, in Costa Rica and specifically San Jose. For this reason, the Embassy would like to remind you of the importance of personal safety and situational awareness.”

Read our full post: U.S Raises Travel Advisory For Costa Rica To Level 2 Amid Recent Spike In Violence

February 23 – U.S. donates $14M in security equipment to fight Costa Rican crime

According to Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves, the United States has provided Costa Rica with more than $14 million worth of security equipment to help reduce violence in the Central American country, which has an “extremely high” murder rate.

For border control and “especially in the fight against international criminal gangs,” Chaves added, the donation includes telecommunications equipment, drones and maintenance gear for police aircraft.

According to the Judicial Investigative Agency, Costa Rica had 12.6 murders per 100,000 inhabitants in 2022, a record high. According to police, gang warfare was a determining factor in 63% of the 656 deaths.

Safety measures to keep in mind:

• Do not engage in physical resistance to any robbery attempt.
• Keep an eye on your surroundings
• Do not show signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and make it easier for rescuers to find you.
• When visiting abroad, Americans should always be cautious.
• Follow the State Department on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
• Review Costa Rica’s country safety report.
• Prepare a contingency plan in case an emergency occurs. Check out the checklist for travelers.

Why travel to Costa Rica

First and foremost, Costa Rica has virtually 0 entry restrictions for vaccinated visitors. No test, no quarantine, no extra expenses, no hassle.

If that is not enough, here you have 3 excellent reasons to pack your bags.

1. Puerto Viejo

This Caribbean coast is popular among young people and backpackers because of its great beaches, surfing, and party atmosphere. In the town, nearby visitors will find some fun activities going on every day. 

When in town, you must pay a visit to the jaguar rescue center where local wildlife is rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

2. Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero is Spanish for “a lot of turtles.” With more than 77,000 acres, this Amazon rainforest-like is home to rivers, jungles, and “a lot of turtles” coming to nest along the shoreline.

3. Corcovado National Park 

Costa Rica is known for its amazing national parks, where tourists can enjoy some thrilling activities like river rafting, canyoning, cave tubing, and wildlife spotting.

This one in particular is the right fit for adventurous people. It features 13 major ecosystems including a rainforest, highland cloud forest, swamps, and beaches. 

Requirements to enter Costa Rica

Travelers to Costa Rica are not required to show proof of vaccination status or proof of a medical insurance policy to cover COVID-19 related illness.

Update archives

February 3 – Costa Rica developed a Certification of Sustainable Tourism

An accreditation created by the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) can help travelers recognize establishments that truly practice sustainability.

The main objective of this certification is to confirm that businesses have adopted measures that have a good impact on the environment and the community. It is also a technical tool that aims to support sustainable tourism in Costa Rica.

With this award, companies are honored for their good management and efforts to reduce the negative impact of their operations. The certification strengthens the work done in the destinations in terms of social, cultural, environmental, economic and development initiatives.

December 13 – Costa Rica reports an increase in crimes committed by Venezuelan migrants

The country has seen an upsurge in crimes, brawls, and other criminal actions by groups of Venezuelan migrants, according to the Municipal Police of San José (PMSJ).

Due to the United States’ decision to restrict the entry of Venezuelan migrants in October, authorities claim that crimes are being committed more frequently by Venezuelans who have chosen to live permanently in the country.

“We have seen an increase in violent acts and crimes committed by people of Venezuelan nationality. In the specific case of San José, we have also noticed an increase in Venezuelan informal workers, who have already gathered in some streets in the city center”, explained Marcelo Solano, director of the municipal police.

October 27 – 65.5% of Costa Ricans consider that Costa Rica is not very safe or not at all safe

Despite its high worldwide reputation, 65.5% of Costa Ricans believe the country is not very safe or at all safe. At the same time, women are more likely than males to be victims of crime, including sexual assault, according to a study released Thursday by the Programa de las Naciones Unidas para el Desarrollo (PNUD) and the School of Statistics (EEs) of the University of Costa Rica (UCR).

According to the experts, the building of a successful, free, and equal society would be impossible under this perception.

The main problems mentioned in the country are the high cost of living (23.9%), a poor economic situation (22%), unemployment (19.2%) and the insecurity of citizens (13.3%).

In fact, the high crime perception in the country could also be explained by the economic difficulties.

“It is not possible to build a prosperous, free and egalitarian society under the threat of violence and dispossession. Feeling free from fear supposes guarantees for the protection of our integrity and properties, within the framework of social coexistence,” said José Vicente Troya Rodríguez, UNDP Resident Representative.

September: Costa Rica, the safest country in Latin America

This year, the Global Peace Index (GPI) rated 163 autonomous nations and territories on their “level of peacefulness.” To measure peace, the study uses 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from “well-regarded sources” and considers three major “domains.”

• The level of ‘Societal Safety and Security’
• The extent of any ‘Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict’
• The degree of Militarization

Only four of the 33 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean – Chile, Uruguay, Panama and Costa Rica – scored at least “light green.” With an overall safety index of 1.732, up 0.017 points from last year’s index, Costa Rica is now considered the safest travel destination in the group. (Source.)

Costa Rica, gearing up to attract adventurous American and Canadian travelers to this safe destination

The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) is working to promote Costa Rica as an adventure tourism destination for American and Canadian tourists.

The ICT estimates that Canada is the second most significant North American market for Costa Rica, while adventure tourism is the third most popular reason to visit the country. For this reason, the promotion and attraction of this tourist profile is of great importance to the institution.

“Canada is the second country that generates more tourists to Costa Rica after the United States. In 2019, it contributed to the arrival of 234,621 tourists and in the first three months of this year the arrival of 61,349 Canadians by air was reported,” said Ireth Rodríguez, head of ICT promotion.

August – The beaches of Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica are not a safe space for local gay tourists

The beaches of Manuel Antonio in Costa Rica are a gay paradise. It is a major LGBTQ destination on the Pacific coast in the province of Puntarenas, known worldwide for its national park, unique flora and fauna, magnificent beaches, and hotels with the best ratings in the world. It is a place where LGBTQ tourists can find freedom, acceptance and joy, which is not always offered to the queer residents of Costa Rica.

The increase of gentrification has displaced natives, caused social-environmental change, and exacerbated inequality, affecting Costa Rica’s most vulnerable communities, such as Black, Indigenous, and gay people.

Even if there is no solution in sight yet, it is important that communities and local governments start to become aware of the problem and look for common solutions.

Costa Rica is on its way to becoming safer for the LGBTIQ+ Community

Members of the LGTBIQ+ Community are about to travel more safely when visiting Costa Rica as the country will punish “hate crimes” with prison sentences ranging from 20 to 35 years. This is according to a law passed Monday and welcomed by civil rights groups.

The law will put on trial anyone who “injures, attacks or kills on the grounds of race, age, religion, nationality, political opinion, disability or sexual orientation.”

“This was a necessity in this country. The law assures those of us who are different are also equal before the law,” said Enrique Joseph, commissioner of the Afro-descendant population.

April 6 – Costa Rica has further relaxed its entry restrictions 

Travelers entering Costa Rica no longer need to fill out an online health passport or show proof of vaccination as of April 1.

Travelers also don’t have to provide proof of health insurance to cover Covid-19-related expenses like hospitalization and quarantine.

Travelers who wish to extend their stay beyond the date specified by immigration authorities must contact the Directorate General of Migration. For more information click here.

January 13 – Costa Rica reporting record numbers of new COVID-19 infections

On Wednesday, January 13, Costa Rica reported 4,170 cases of COVID-19, which is now the highest number of new daily infections there of the entire pandemic.

The second-highest number was recorded on Tuesday with 4,050 positive cases, and last Saturday, January 8, which brought 3,374 new infections. Before that, the highest number was reported on May 12, 2021, with 3,173.

COVID-19 hospitalizations also rose in Costa Rica. On Wednesday, 242 patients were hospitalized because of the virus, of which 55 were in Intensive Care Units.

Source: Tico Times

December 30 – Slight increase in cases; hospitalizations and fatalities dropping in Costa Rica

Last week, the Costa Rica Ministry of Health reported a slight increase (1.8%) in COVID-19 cases compared to the previous week.

On the other hand, during the same period of time, the number of hospitalizations decreased by 15.2%, while fatalities dropped by 61%.

Another good news is that by December 25, there have been only four cases of the new Omicron variant reported. None of them are related and have not required hospitalization.

Source: Outbreak News Today

November 23 – Costa Rica’s establishments to soon require proof of vaccination

While Costa Rica allows unvaccinated visitors, they will not be able to enter most local establishments from the beginning of next year. The mandate will affect most tourist attractions, including hotels, restaurants, museums, or bars, and should come into effect on January 8, 2022.

Children under 12 will not have to present proof of vaccination. Travelers who can prove they have a medical condition that doesn’t allow them to get vaccinated against COVID-19 will also be exempt from the rule.

Costa Rica still plans to welcome unvaccinated visitors next year. However, they might have to think twice before they go as hotels will not be able to host them.

Source: Lonely Planet

October 12 – Costa Rica removed from the U.K. COVID-19 travel ‘red list’

Yesterday, on October 11, Costa Rica was removed from the U.K. travel red list, along with 46 other countries.

Eligible vaccinated travelers arriving in the U.K. from Costa Rica are not required to quarantine anymore at their own expense. They only need to test after arrival.

However, as the Costa Rican vaccination program lacks proof of vaccination for travel to the U.K., those who have received their shots in Costa Rica must test before departure, on days 2 and 8, and complete a 10-day home quarantine.

The decision should help restore tourism between the two countries, as well as an early return of British Airways and Tui airlines before the start of the high season, added Gustavo Segura, Costa Rica’s Tourism Minister. The whole process should also help Costa Rica get back on the European market.

Source: The Tico Times

September 8 – Costa Rica reports near-record number of COVID-19 infections

Costa Rica suffered its second-highest total of COVID-19 cases in a single week between August 29 and September 4, announced the Health Ministry.

During that period, the country registered 16,601 new coronavirus cases. That is, on average, 2,371 new infections daily. At its highest point in early May 2021, there were 18,021 cases reported in a week.

In the last four weeks, Costa Rica also saw an increase in deaths and hospital admissions. Between August 29 and September 4, 136 patients died of COVID-19 in Costa Rica. Before, there were 89, 105, and 127 fatalities reported each week, respectively. Hospital admissions continue to increase by 15% week by week.

Based on the estimates of the Costa Rican Social Security Fund, the situation will most likely not improve any time soon. We can expect to see up to 3,500 new cases a day by the end of September.

Source: The Tico Times

The post Is COSTA RICA Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Disclaimer: Travel restrictions and governmental regulations can change rapidly and the information below might be outdated within a few hours. Therefore, double-check all information with your embassy or on official websites. Traveling Lifestyle does not take any responsibility for your decision to travel.

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China Reopening Borders – Latest Updates

March 10 – US to relax Covid testing restrictions for travelers from China as soon as March 10

A source close to the situation told CNN Tuesday that the US is going to ease Covid-19 testing requirements for Chinese visitors as soon as Friday, noting a drop in Covid cases, hospitalizations, and deaths as well as more data on the versions that were circulating in China.

When Beijing’s sudden relaxing of Covid regulations resulted in an increase in instances, federal health officials declared in December that, from January 5, all travelers from China would be obligated to show a negative Covid test result before traveling to the nation.

The testing requirement was implemented in January, following China’s drop on controversial and long-held zero-Covid policy, which caught many in the country off guard in early December.

February 17 – China says its Covid response is a ‘miracle in human history’

Following a sudden easing of its “zero-Covid” policy late last year, China has declared a “major and decisive victory” in controlling the coronavirus pandemic that has swept the nation in recent months.

The ruling Communist Party’s top decision-making body reached that assessment Thursday during a behind-closed-doors meeting chaired by Chinese leader Xi Jinping. It is the latest indication that the nation is trying to reduce the political impact of zero-Covid.

The long-standing policy had caused much resentment, including occasional nationwide protests, before it was abruptly ended in December amid mounting economic costs.

February 2 – the country’s current wave of Covid-19 infections is “coming to an end”.

According to a report from the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of severe covid cases and deaths is declining.

Although many people gathered with their families last week to celebrate the Lunar New Year, there was “no obvious rebound.” Concerns have long been raised about the covid reports from China.

However, researchers maintain that the current decline is consistent with the expected timing of the end of this major wave.

After the government lifted zero-Covid restrictions in December, the virus wreaked havoc in Chinese cities and villages. Clinic visits fell by over 90% in January, and hospital admissions are down by over 85%.

When is China likely to Reopen for Tourism?

China is again open for tourism. International flights will gradually restart between 2023 and 2025, according to China’s “14th five-year plan,” for civil aviation development.

“Due to the current state of the pandemic,” the plan will be divided into two phases. 

The years 2023-2025 will be a period of growth, with a focus on enhancing the local market, restoring the international market, and improving the level of opening up, according to the aviation industry media.

China Reopening Borders – FAQs:

How to obtain a visa?

It is not enough to have a passport that is current and that it has at least six months left prior to expiring. 

DO NOT TRAVEL TO CHINA WITHOUT A VISA. Anyone who tries to enter China right now with just a passport and no proper visa may be arrested, deported, or refused access. 

Current mask requirement

Health authorities in China’s capital Beijing have been lifting the requirement for people to wear masks outdoors after the city reported several consecutive days without new cases.

This may change with no prior notice. 

China Reopening Borders – Update Archives

January 17 – China abandons COVID-19 entry restrictions

China has eased quarantine rules for visitors arriving from abroad, despite a rise in COVID-19 cases nationwide. According to the CGTN news agency, the first group of travelers covered by the new regulations was processed last week at airports in Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

There were 387 passengers on the flights from Singapore and Toronto. However, no one had to undergo COVID-19 tests or the former five-day post-arrival quarantine.

Quarantine restrictions were gradually lifted after China abruptly abandoned its “zero covid ” policy. Beijing ended the strict measures of mandatory quarantine, lockdown, and routine testing after record-breaking protests against these measures.

Covid testing is still required to enter China.

January 3 – China plans to drop quarantine for travelers from January 8

The Chinese government announced the reopening of tourism on January 8. Inbound travelers won’t be required to quarantine and the daily flight limit will be also removed.

PCR Covid test taken before departure will remain required for all travelers.

December 21 – China abandons its tracking app as it scraps its zero-Covid policy

Just days after unexpectedly reversing its longstanding zero-Covid policy, China has announced it will discontinue its main covid tracking app as part of its recent withdrawal from pandemic prevention efforts.

This came at a time when health authorities were warning of possible widespread infections and deploying tens of thousands of medical professionals to intensive care units in anticipation of an Omicron outbreak.

A key component of the technological framework that underpinned the government’s Covid response was the national app. Numerous regional and local apps used health information that was often not transferable to other areas.

December 7 – China relaxes Covid restrictions on travel and production

Chinese authorities on Wednesday announced a drastic relaxation of covid regulations that will no longer require travelers to present negative virus tests or health certificates to travel between different parts of the country.

Chinese authorities added that local production and activities cannot be stopped until a region is declared a high-risk area.

Other recent changes to Covid rules, such as allowing more people to be quarantined at home, were made official through the announcement on the National Health Commission’s website.

November 23 – China might not see Zero Covid cases again without another hard lockdown, said official on Tuesday

According to Larry Hu, chief China economist, rising Covid infections in mainland China are making it harder for authorities to achieve zero covid without moving to a strict lockdown.

According to CNBC calculations based on data from Wind Information, the number of daily cases has risen to near or more than 28,000 in recent days, a number last reached in April during a strict lockdown in Shanghai. The statistics show that the last time there were a few illnesses per day in mainland China was in June, shortly after Shanghai relaxed its restrictions.

“China might have already passed the point of no return, as it’s unlikely to achieve zero Covid again without another Shanghai-style hard lockdown,” Macquarie’s Chief China Economist Larry Hu said in a report Tuesday. “What policymakers could do now is to slow the spread of virus, i.e. flatten the curve, by tightening the Covid controls for the time being.”

November 7 – China to maintain its zero-COVID strategy

China will maintain its zero policy COVID, health officials said Saturday, in light of new outbreaks in the country.

According to Reuters, Hu Xiang of the National Health Commission’s Office of Disease Prevention and Control said in a briefing that Beijing’s strict containment measures, including lockdowns, quarantines and mass testing, were “completely correct” and “the most economical and effective.” Health experts reportedly said procedures should be fine-tuned and changed to better help people at risk.

On Monday, China reported 5,496 new locally transmitted COVID -19 cases as of Nov. 6, the most since May 2, when the commercial metropolis of Shanghai was placed under a stifling lockdown amid the country’s largest outbreak.

October 24 – China imposes more restrictions in the center of Guangzhou

Concerns about potential disruption in the southern Chinese manufacturing hub of Guangzhou, which is home to around 19 million people, were raised when China halted in-person education and dining at restaurants in an area in the city’s core.

All elementary and middle schools in the Haizhu district, where 10% of the city’s residents live, will stop offering in-person instruction starting on Monday. 

The limitations came more than a week after the Huadu district closed its theaters and schools, and while certain communities were given permission to relax curbs on Sunday, the majority of the region is still under control measures. For Sunday, Guangzhou recorded 69 new infections.

October 11 – Hong Kong scrapped mandatory hotel quarantine while the rest of China implements more lockdowns

After more than two and a half years of strict pandemic controls, the Hong Kong government has announced the end of formal quarantine for outbound travelers.

The new restrictions require arriving tourists to monitor themselves for three days upon arrival.

As a result, residents eager to travel rushed to book flights out of the city.

Meanwhile, China has increased the number of Covid lockdowns, restricting the movement of several million people.

September 26 – China to reopen border regions to foreign visitors

The Chinese government issued draft regulations on Monday, September 19, aiming for increasing tourism along its borders and making it simpler for some foreigners to enter China.

According to a draft policy paper released on Monday by China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, tour groups organized by companies in border regions will have “flexible” options for port of entrance and exit.

There was no additional information offered regarding precise locations and dates.

Read our full post: China Might Reopen Some Border Regions For Foreign Tourists

September – China resumes flight operations to Bali 

China Airlines’ service to Denpasar has resumed just days after HE Deng Xijun, China’s Ambassador to ASEAN Countries, met with Bali Governor Wayan Koster. The two talked on tourism’s future, education, and the upcoming G20 summit in November.

Governor Koster told Ambassador Xijun, “We will wait for the return of tourists from China, which before the pandemic was one of the countries from which most tourists came to Bali. I beg the Honorable Ambassador to encourage the Chinese government to allow their citizens to Bali”. 

The China Airlines flight left Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) at 10:08 a.m. on Friday, traveling 2,360 miles (3,800 kilometers) in just under five hours. It arrived at Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali at 15:01, carrying 163 passengers.

Read our full post: China Airlines Resumes Operations To Bali After A 2-year Break

August – China to welcome back stranded Indian students, businessmen and their families

September – China resumes flight operations to Bali 

China Airlines’ service to Denpasar has resumed just days after HE Deng Xijun, China’s Ambassador to ASEAN Countries, met with Bali Governor Wayan Koster. The two talked on tourism’s future, education, and the upcoming G20 summit in November.

Governor Koster told Ambassador Xijun, “We will wait for the return of tourists from China, which before the pandemic was one of the countries from which most tourists came to Bali. I beg the Honorable Ambassador to encourage the Chinese government to allow their citizens to Bali”. 

The China Airlines flight left Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) at 10:08 a.m. on Friday, traveling 2,360 miles (3,800 kilometers) in just under five hours. It arrived at Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali at 15:01, carrying 163 passengers.

China announced Monday it will issue visas to hundreds of Indian students who have been stuck in their home country for more than two years due to Beijing’s tight COVID restrictions. besides various categories of travel permits for Indians including business visas.

“Warmest congrats to #Indian #students! Your patience proves worthwhile. I can really share your excitement & happiness. Welcome back to #China!” Ji Rong, Counsellor, Department of Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, China tweeted.

Her tweet referenced a comprehensive notice by the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi announcing the opening of visas to students, businessmen, and family members of people working in China.

The X1 visa will be provided to students who intend to stay in China for an extended period of time to pursue academic studies, including freshly enrolled students and those returning to China to continue their studies, according to the announcement.

July – China has reduced quarantine for international arrivals

As a first move toward easing its Covid-19 border controls, China has cut the length of the quarantine period for international visitors.

New rules established by the National Health Commission require visitors to mainland China to spend seven days at a facility under official control before being isolated for three days at home.

Prior to being let out of quarantine, travelers must still submit to routine testing and demonstrate a negative test result.

Read our full post: China Eases Quarantine Requirements For International Travelers As Of June 29

June – China resumes work or family reunion visas under strict conditions

This week, the embassy announced changes for international travelers, meaning a handful of nationalities will be able to apply for a work or family reunion visa for the first time since March 2020.

The lifting of the entry ban also applies to their family members, and they can also return to the country to work.

Until now, visas were issued only for “necessary economic” or “technological activities” or for “humanitarian reasons” such as mourning or visiting seriously ill relatives.

However, as of this month, dozens of Chinese embassies – including those in the United States, Canada, Indonesia, India, South Korea, and Australia – are available for this type of visa.

Those who have suffered a previous COVID-19 infection will have to take six PCR tests.

June – China eases Shanghai lockdown after more than 8 weeks

After a two-month lockdown, the Chinese city of Shanghai, the country’s economic powerhouse and a global trade hub has eased covid restrictions.

“This is a day that we dreamed of for a very long time,” Shanghai government spokeswoman Yin Xin told reporters.

“Everyone has sacrificed a lot. This day has been hard-won and we need to cherish and protect it, and welcome back the Shanghai we are familiar with and missed.”

At least 650,000 residents will remain confined to their homes.

China’s general “zero Covid” policy remains in effect, and people who contract covid face quarantine or hospitalization.

May 24 – Airbnb is shutting down in China due to ongoing lockdowns 

As reported by the BBC, all offers for homes and experiences in the country will be removed from the company’s website by the summer.

The company plans to inform employees in the country as early as May 24 in Beijing.

China has had some of the strictest covid restrictions in the world since 2020, making travel in and through the country extremely difficult.

Sources say Chinese travel abroad has been a bigger opportunity for Airbnb, and the company will focus on providing deals for Chinese travelers going abroad.

May 11 – China further tightens its Covid-19 restrictions 

China has expanded its lockdown measures beyond Shanghai and Beijing, according to reports from European companies.

In addition, residents of the capital must produce a negative Covid-19 test to gain access to public spaces, a significant tightening of restrictions in Beijing.

Proof of a negative Covid-19 test is also required to board public transportation since last week.

It is not clear how long the new restrictions will last.

April 27 – China to further reinforce Shanghai lockdown 

While the rest of the world waited for China to announce the lifting of restrictive measures in Shanghai, the authorities decided to do just the opposite.

Electronic door alarms have been installed to prevent infected people from leaving as well as evacuating people to sanitize their homes.

All infected patients and close contacts are being taken to a government-run central quarantine facility, according to the Shanghai Municipal Government.

Beicai residents have been officially warned to pack their belongings and leave their closet doors open.

They were also instructed to leave their front doors open and to leave their pets at home.

April 14 – China extends Shanghai lockdown to the entire city  

After a new surge in covid cases, authorities have expanded the lockdown of Shanghai to include all 25 million residents.

Originally, the government had decided to impose different rules for the east and the west, leading many to believe China was relaxing its zero-covid strategy.

But now an indefinite ban applies to the entire city. Authorities have not yet announced a date when this lockdown will end.

March 29 – Shanghai to lock down millions as China explores changes to “Zero Covid” strategy 

As a fresh wave of Covid-19 is spreading through China’s most important financial hub, resulting in the country’s largest number of cases since the pandemic began.

Authorities said the eastern side of the Huangpu River, which divides Shanghai, will be under lockdown from Monday through Friday. Similar restrictions will apply to the western side from April 1.

China’s National Health Commission has issued new instructions limiting the geographic scope of mass testing and requiring local governments to complete testing in each designated area within 24 hours.

According to experts, “this is an adjustment rather than a softening of Zero COVID. It shows that Beijing is trying to make testing less of a social and economic burden by making it more efficient, as opposed to limiting it.”

March 11 – China Registers 1,000 daily cases for the first time since the pandemic began

China has recorded over 1,000 new Covid-19 cases in multiple cities, the highest daily count since the pandemic struck.

This has forced authorities to put the northeastern province of Jilin under lockdown. Starting Friday, its 9 million residents will only be permitted to leave their homes for essential reasons. Likewise, all schools have also been closed in the financial hub of Shanghai.

Nearly 87% of China’s 1.4 billion inhabitants have received two doses of a Covid-19 vaccine, with some 40% of the population also receiving a booster shot.

Despite this, the government continues to refuse to set a reopening date. 

February 1 – Chinese people have been advised not to travel to Beijing during the Winter Olympics

Some local spectators will be “invited” to events following strict COVID prevention measures “before, during, and after watching the Games,” which will be held from Feb. 4 to Feb. 20.

To avoid becoming infected with the virus, locals have been warned not to travel into Beijing from other parts of China.

As of Jan. 31, game organizers have reported 24 new COVID cases among Games-related staff, 16 of whom are athletes.

“[The Covid-19 situation] is generally within our expected controllable range. So the Games participants, including athletes, and the Chinese public do not have to worry,” said Huang Chun, deputy director-general of the committee’s Pandemic Prevention and Control Office.

January 17 – China might continue to be closed to international tourism at least until November 2022

According to a research report by Investment Bank Jefferies, China is expected to maintain its “zero-COVID” policy until after the National People’s Congress in November 2022, and possibly beyond.

While it was previously thought that China would reopen after the next Winter Olympics (Feb. 4-20), Jefferies analysts forecast the reopening date may be delayed to ensure the Chinese President gets reappointed to a historic third term with no external interruptions. 

There is “a risk that [China’s zero-COVID policy] could continue into 2023 and possibly beyond,” said the research. 

December 15 – Government tightens travel restrictions in East China as COVID-29 cases spike 

Authorities have reimposed restrictions on outbound travelers in East China’s Zhejiang province due to a spike in COVID-19 cases. 

To tackle the rise in cases, officials have placed some 70,000 people under self-isolation while other 465,000 will subject to various restrictions including health monitoring and bans on using public transportation.

“The shutdown of Zhejiang factories will impact on the supply chains of various sectors, especially fiber and textiles,” Zhaopeng Xing, senior China strategist at ANZ Research, told AFP.

November 30 – China has not announced further entry restrictions over Omicron variant

China will not be taking any “major action” to tackle the new Omicron variant, said Zhong Nanshan, a government adviser at a conference in Guangzhou last weekend.

The country has confirmed two cases of the “variant of concern” in Hong Kong so far, but Chinese public health experts have said they trust the country’s existing border control measures to contain the spread.

“China’s current rapid response and dynamic clearance strategy is capable of dealing with all types of new coronavirus variants,” said China’s most trusted expert on Covid-19 on social media.

November 18 – China might start reopening borders after the Winter Olympics, says a country’s top adviser

Closer collaboration between Washington, Beijing and the World Health Organization could help reopen China, said Henry Wang Huiyao, an adviser to China’s State Council at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum in Singapore.

“I hope that after the Beijing Olympics, we will see something happening,” Wang said.

“There’s a need for having that so we can facilitate travel, the movement of people, and even for Chinese government officials to visit other countries.”

China is gearing up for a number of important events, including the Olympic Games in February, which makes it necessary to ease some entry restrictions. 

November 3 – China to cancel hundreds of flights to Beijing as COVID-19 restrictions tighten

Despite the fact that a number of Asian countries are abandoning the zero-covid policy due to its inefficiency, China stays steadfast.

Beijing’s health commission announced that residents who left the city for work or pleasure to places with confirmed cases should “postpone” returning, as per a CNBC report. 

If China begins to lift restrictions once vaccination rates reach 85 percent as some officials have suggested, the country would not reopen for at least another year.

Lanzhou, a city of over 4 million people, was put under lockdown on Tuesday after only six new daily Covid-19 cases were recorded.

October 13 – China refuses to leave its zero-Covid approach

Countries like Singapore, New Zealand, and Indonesia that have tightly controlled the spread of the coronavirus for almost 2 years now, are gradually loosening restrictions as vaccination rates rise and governments attempt to reduce economic burdens.

But not China. At least not for now. In a recent interview, Chinese CDC chief Gao Fu stated that, while a new strategy is being considered, it is still too early to consider the disease endemic.

“We’re discussing China’s new strategy… “Everything is dynamic,” Gao explained. However, no mention was made about the potential date for international borders reopening. 

September 10 – China’s interprovincial travel booking has increased up to 550% for mid-Autumn Festival

The Mid-Autumn Festival is somehow similar to Thanksgiving day in the United States or the harvest festivals held in Europe. Multiple tour booking platforms have reported an increase of up to 550% between Aug. 23 and Sept. 6. 

On Trip.com Group’s Ctrip platform bookings increased by 365%. Other similar private companies have reported an increase of up to 550%. 

This has only been possible thanks to the rather strict but undeniably effective containment measures China recently took to bring COVID-19 local transmission numbers back to zero.

Source: SCMP

September 23 – China orders 10 million citizens to get tested for COVID within the next 48 hours 

That’s how China rolls when it comes to stopping the spread of the virus. Harbin citizens will need to stay home until Friday while getting tested for coronavirus after the Provincial Health Commission reported 13 new cases on Wednesday.

This outbreak does not seem to be linked to the recent Fujian surge a few weeks ago. 

On that occasion, the government had citizens get tested for coronavirus up to 11 times in a short period of time.

All Covid-19 vaccinations have been suspended while the city proceeds with this mass testing.

Source: Reuters

August 16 – Locally transmitted COVID cases back to zero after last flare-up

China has recorded no new locally transmitted Covid-19 infections for the first time since its worst outbreak more than a year ago.

Criticized by many but praised for many more, China’s intensive and exhausting efforts to contain the spread had paid off.  

The country had citizens get tested up to 12 times in one month in one city to ensure they catch all elusive cases. Severe quarantines and the closure of the world’s third-busiest port also played a role in eliminating the threat. 

Source: Fortune

August 11 – China will reopen for tourism when a series of requirements are met, says government

China had to reimpose a number of COVID-19 restrictions impacting transport, tourism and other services following an outbreak in coronavirus cases.  

The current outbreak has already spread to more than 15 China’s provinces resulting in more than 1,000 new cases, although the government considers there must be more.

More than 40 China officials have been punished for being unable to control the Delta variant in their territories.

When asked about a potential reopening date, a senior official from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that “though there’s no timeline when China will lift border restrictions, the country will do so in the future after meeting a number of requirements.” 

Source: Global Times

June 6 – China might not reopen borders to foreign visitors until 2022

A top Chinese health official has stated the country “can’t” reopen until they can determine how well vaccines work in a large number of individuals.

With almost 1.4 billion citizens, authorities know that any small outbreak can turn into a massive impossible-to-control one. 

“I don’t think we’ve got to that point – if we try to open even when 60% or 80% of the population are vaccinated, it could still lead to a severe outbreak,” […] “It largely depends on the technical considerations, societal consensus and political concerns,” said Feng Zijian, the deputy Director-General of China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention at a conference in Qingdao. 

Then, at the current vaccination pace -which is indeed incredibly fast) only foreign nationals with valid residence permits and visas will be allowed entry in 2021. 

(Source: Bloomberg)

July 27 – China to reintroduce lockdown from July 26 until further notice

China has reintroduced COVID-19 restrictions and mass testing in Nanjing, the capital of the eastern province of Jiangsu following the biggest spike in coronavirus cases in the last 7 months.

The plan is to contact-trace and get its 9.3 million residents tested to contain the spread of the Delta variant. 

Residents must remain in lockdown from July 26 on, and non-essential businesses will not be allowed to operate.

It is uncertain how long these restrictions will remain in place. 

Source: South China Morning Post

July 13 – China could resume travel bubble with Hong Kong soon, says HK Leader

Chief Executive of Hong Kong, Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor has announced that she expects to receive “positive instructions” on the date the border with mainland China can reopen, following a COVID-19 report she submitted to Beijing a few days ago. 

According to the report, Hong Kong has not seen a single community-transmitted infection over the last 33 days. The official tally remains at 11,951 total cases and 212 deaths.

She also mentioned that no other conditions have been discussed about the border reopening so far. 

On the other hand, in mid-May China’s cabinet announced that the second half of 2022 would be a realistic date to reopen the country. 

Source: The Coronavirus Pandemic

July 1 – China could reopen a travel bubble with Hong Kong while tightening internal restrictions from July 1

Chinese health authorities have stated they could start a quarantine-free travel bubble with Hong Kong this month. This benefit would apply to business travelers only. 

This potential reopening of “limited travel” will be tied to coronavirus activity in both countries. 

“I think reopening the border with Hong Kong will [happen] sooner [than for international borders],” said Zhong Nanshan, a top respiratory expert from China. 

At the same time, China tightened internal restrictions from July 1 onward. As of now, visitors with travel history to the U.K. will be denied entry regardless of their nationality, country of residence or vaccination status.

(Source: GardaWorld).

June 18 – China reopening suffering a major delay due to a COVID-19 outbreak and uneven vaccine distribution

Chinese authorities have stated the country will not reopen until most of their population is vaccinated since “any outbreak, it’s a massive outbreak.”

Well, a current outbreak of Covid-19 in southern China has impacted not only China’s reopening plans but also the distribution of shipped goods from the third and fifth largest ports in the world. 

As of today, cities such as Beijing and Shanghai have fully inoculated almost 70% of their population. By contrast, Guangdong and Shandong have only vaccinated less than 20%.

“[China] is such a big country… Once any of its places open up, it will have a big impact on places that haven’t reached high vaccination levels,” said Feng Zijian, a researcher at the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. 

(Source: Reuters)

The post China Is Open For Tourism And Sees Rapid Decline In Covid Cases appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Traveling Lifestyle has compiled a list of 50+ vacation ideas and places for Americans and foreigners that should have on their bucket list in 2022.

TRENDY: 10 Most Charming SMALL U.S. TOWNDSYou Should Visit In 2023

Best places to travel right now in the USA

Glacier National Park, Montana

The Glacier Park in Montana has over 1 million acres and features a lush rainforest, ancient cedar trees, wildflower-filled meadows, glacier-carved peaks, shimmering lakes and fantastic hiking trails.

In any season, the park offers a variety of outdoor activities. Ice fishing, snowshoeing, rowing and more than 700 kilometers of hiking trails are among the activities offered. In winter, the park is a fantastic area for cross-country skiing. Mountaineering, climbing and biking are popular activities in the off-season.

July and August are the best – and busiest – times to visit this park. Average daily temperatures are in the low 80s (though you can expect lower temperatures at higher elevations).

Hunting Island State Park, South Carolina 

The park draws more than a million people each year with its pristine beaches, marine forests, historic lighthouse and special nature center. The state’s only lighthouse open to the public is also located there.

The island has a saltwater lagoon, an ocean cove, and a fishing pier. Many visitors camp here to enjoy the beautiful oceanfront location.

It is a fantastic time to travel to the island and swim in the attractive lagoon, as the sea is still warm even in January.

The nearest major airport is in Charleston, about 70 miles away. However, there are also some very small local airports open to light aircraft in the area, as well as limited public transportation services.

Telluride, Colorado

By the time a visionary group of ski enthusiasts came up with a plan to build a ski resort in Telluride in the early 1970s, the town’s gold mines and wealth were gone. 

Fifty years later, the quirky little mountain town nestled in the middle of a canyon in southwest Colorado has earned an international reputation as a treasured gathering place that keeps visitors returning for more. Just recently, Telluride has been featured in Conde Nast magazine as No. 1 destination to visit in the U.S. in 2023.

The 50th anniversary of this tiny community of 2,600 year-round residents will be significant in 2023: Winter sports enthusiasts will be able to celebrate the 50th season at Telluride Ski Resort, which will feature a new, high-speed quad chairlift and improved snowmaking equipment. 

And the Telluride Bluegrass Festival is gearing up for its 50th year of joyous “destination” in June, with a world-class lineup that will remain a well-kept secret until spring. Savvy “festivarians” will act fast, as the event always sells out early.

Socorro, New Mexico for Bird Watching

For lovers of nature and bird watching, Socorro, New Mexico, is the ideal fall destination.

The town is near the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, which hosts the annual Bosque del Apache Festival Of The Cranes in November.

It is a great natural spectacle. Numerous sandhill cranes and geese migrate from the north to spend the winter here.

The cranes come in waves from all directions after dusk. The birds flock to the shallow wetlands of the refuge to find a safe place to spend the night.

At daybreak, they take to the skies to feed in nearby fields and reservoirs.

The trails in Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge are especially rewarding because you can easily spot coyotes, deer, eagles and hawks. Best of all, Albuquerque is only an hour’s drive away.

Kenai Fjords, Alaska

Over thousands of years, glaciers, waves, and mountains have shaped Kenai Fjords National Park, creating some of Alaska’s most breathtaking and awe-inspiring vistas. It’s no surprise that the area attracts visitors of all kinds, as it offers so many natural treasures and is easily accessible by road, train, and water.

In the fall, temperatures are not too cold, the days are still long, and nature is in full bloom. The park’s biodiversity thrives in the fresh, energetic air, the icy waterways, and the lush forests.

Kenai Fjords is known not only for its glaciers and abundant wildlife but also for its easy accessibility. The park is just a 2.5-hour drive south of Anchorage, and Seward is an excellent base for touring.

Texas Hill Country for Fall Hikes

The Texas Hill Country is one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. to visit in the fall because of its cool weather (average daily temperatures of 71° F), excellent vineyards, charming small towns, and blooming foliage.

The magnificent Lost Maples State Natural Area or neighboring Garner State Park are the best places to enjoy the fall foliage in Texas.

The numerous parks in downtown Austin also have their share of beautiful color.

For the best views of the city skyline and foliage, head to the Hike & Bike Trail near Lady Bird Lake.

Many popular Hill Country hiking trails, like Enchanted Rock, are ideal for visiting in the fall when the weather has cooled enough for temperatures to be comfortable.

The season is full of food, wine and craft fairs in small towns like Fredericksburg, Wimberley, Boerne and Marble Falls, and both wineries and barbecue establishments are ready to welcome guests on large patios.

Sedona, Arizona for Red Rock Vistas

Imagine eating your Thanksgiving dinner surrounded by red rock landscapes. Or hiking in glorious weather to the most beautiful spots you have ever seen.

That’s what you can expect if you visit Sedona now.

Sunny November weather in the mid-60s is ideal for epic Red Rock singletrack mountain biking.

However, the 250 miles of trails are not the only thing that attracts mountain bikers in November.

The Sedona Mountain Bike Festival, which takes place November 12-14, features more than 90 vendors, bike demonstrations, live music and delicious food.

If you are in Sedona for Thanksgiving, start the day with the annual Turkey Trot, a fun 5-kilometer race. 

The lavish brunch and dinner served at L’Auberge de Sedona will make your trip so unforgettable that it might end up becoming a yearly Thanksgiving tradition.

Palm Springs to Restore

If you are looking for outdoor activities, Palm Springs offers two internationally recognized dark sky parks and breathtaking desert hikes (Joshua Tree National Park and Borrego Springs).

Nearby, more than 110 golf courses are available, or you can swing a racket on hundreds of tennis courts and emulate your favorite stars.

In addition, Palm Springs is home to renowned spas, handcrafted cocktails and world-class dining establishments.

Take in the sights as you spend a half-day soaring from the desert floor into the untamed wilderness of Mt. San Jacinto State Park.

in between adventures? Of course, relax by the pool and enjoy the breathtaking desert scenery.

San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Archipelago is located between Seattle and Vancouver. In July, these idyllic islands are green and lush, with the right mix of sandy beaches and towering mountains in the background.

Although the islands are most visited in the summer, they are a quiet place to enjoy nature and relax. Also, this time of year is known for its tremendous 4th of July fireworks displays and the great farmers’ markets.

Despite their proximity to major cities, the islands have not been exploited by tourists and still emit an unspoiled charm and local atmosphere that is hard to find these days.

The San Juan Islands enjoy a temperate climate throughout the year. Because the islands lie in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, temperatures rarely rise above the 70s or fall below the 40s. Therefore, there is rarely a bad time to visit the islands, and outdoor activities are available year-round.

If you enjoy cycling, this is the place for you. Beginners might enjoy a bike ride on Lopez Island, which is generally flat but offers beautiful scenery. Mount Constitution on Orcas Island is a challenge for advanced cyclists.

San Francisco

San Francisco, one of America’s most spectacular cities, attracts travelers worldwide with its international culture, nightlife, and shopping.

Year after year, readers of Condé Nast Traveler vote it one of “America’s Favorite Cities.”

In addition to its gastronomic diversity, San Francisco is home to people of diverse backgrounds and cultures, significantly impacting its art, gastronomy, and fashion.

One of the fascinating aspects of visiting San Francisco is that despite its enormous size, in terms of attractions and services, the city is geographically small. Most of its main amenities can be visited in a single day, which is fantastic considering that the city is one of the most expensive in the United States.

Seattle, Washington 

Fall is a terrific time to visit Seattle because there are fewer tourists, hotels are more affordable, the weather is pleasant, and you can go whale watching. There are also some fantastic annual festivals, like the fantastic Bumbershoot music and arts festival happening this month.

Seattle is known for its coffee culture, the Seattle Seahawks, the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the headquarters of several tech companies (including Amazon and Microsoft), as well as its grunge music scene, hiking, kayaking, and general outdoor lifestyle.

The port city of Seattle is known for both its delicious cuisine and its cool weather. It’s best to visit Seattle in September or October to take advantage of the normal weather without being too chilly to experience the wide range of activities. Summer brings warmer temperatures, but also higher costs and limited availability.

Seattle is a major city in the United States, so there are numerous ways to get there. Many people drive and make a stop in Seattle as part of a road trip. Another option is to fly, and Seattle has three major airports: King County International Airport, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and Renton Municipal Airport.

Buffalo National River

Because of its hikes, mid-greatest America’s waterfalls, sand bars, caving adventures, a Ghost town, and the river, which is available for some of the most exciting canoeing excursions of the year, the Buffalo River – National Park is a perfect year-round destination.

Come for fishing, horseback riding, paddling, and more as you cruise through the Ozark Mountains down to the White River, passing past rapids and calm pools while surrounded by massive cliffs.

The Buffalo National River, established in 1972, is one of the few remaining undammed rivers in the lower 48 states of the United States. It was created primarily to protect its clean waters, which is why it has remained unspoiled.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Famous for its beaches, nightlife and world-class events, Fort Lauderdale is one of America’s favorite Spring Break destinations.

Visit the historic district of this “Venice of America,” shop on Las Olas Boulevard, or enjoy a gondola ride among the canals.

A ride on Fort Lauderdale’s water taxi gives you a front-row seat to the mansions and yachts that line on the “Millionaires Row.”

In spring the weather is hot enough for tanning on its pristine white sandy beaches or swimming in its crystal clear waters.

You can also engage in water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or take a yacht ride across the Gulf to explore the wildlife-rich national parks.

Hilton Head, South Carolina

Nestled between Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, this 12-mile barrier island offers a less crowded atmosphere than these two more popular destinations.

Hilton Head, popularly known as “The Golf Island,” has a long list of recognized golf fans. Golf Digest readers even ranked it No. 10 on their list of the best golf courses in the world, and Travel Pulse named it the best island in America.

In spring, the island with its beautiful beaches and small-town atmosphere is also an ideal place for a family vacation.

The coastline is picture-perfect, and there are family-friendly museums, boutiques in Harbor Town, and local restaurants serving delicious Southern dishes.

The Catskills, New York

Many destinations in the United States are great for a spring break vacation, but if you just want to take a day trip, the Catskills in New York State is a great option.

Stretching from the Hudson Valley all the way to the Appalachian Mountains, Catskills is a paradise for people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy luxurious ski resorts, unlimited outdoor recreation, charming towns, or simply soak in the stunning views.

Stay in towns like Kingston, Hunter, Woodstock, or New Paltz, and don’t forget to go hiking if the weather permits!

The Catskill Mountains are also famous for its hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, and rivers for visitors to enjoy.

This natural paradise boasts 98 peaks. The eastern mountains are higher in elevation, while the western mountains flatten into the Allegheny Plateau.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Away from the crowds but still offering the best of top destinations is Fairbanks, the place to visit to spot the northern lights, have a drink at an ice bar, or take part in ice carving competitions.

Known as the “hub for Alaska’s Interior and the Arctic,” Fairbanks offers first-class hotels and restaurants, as well as museums, historic sites and breathtaking natural beauty.

Spring is considered the best time to visit the city because, despite the snow, days are longer and mainly sunny.

Fairbanks is famous for its exceptionally long summer days, where the day never seems to end. 

The average temperature in the upcoming weeks is normally around 13°F. So, just get your warm jacket and get ready for adventure!

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas

Known for its 47 thermal springs, Hot Springs National Park boast a unique mix of geologic structure and water sources that produce the highest quality non-volcanic geothermal springs in the United States.

Some people are unaware that hot springs are the perfect way to warm up in the winter, mainly because the bathhouses are indoors.

The whole Bathhouse Row area has been named a National Historic Landmark District since it houses North America’s largest collection of bathhouses, including several remarkable examples of Gilded Age architecture.

It also features more than 30 miles of hiking trails through the stunning Ouachita Mountains as well as scenic drives, hot water cascade, picnic areas and campsites at Gulpha Gorge Recreation Area & Campground. 

The park includes portions of downtown Hot Springs, making it one of the most accessible national parks.

Grand Canyon

The renowned Grand Canyon, one of the world’s natural marvels, elicits oohs and aahs from visitors sitting on the brink of its towering cliffs. The beautiful rock strata carved by the copper-colored Colorado River reflect billions of years of history and hide numerous unique species.

Summer is the busiest season for visitors to Arizona’s Grand Canyon, but don’t let that stop you from going. The North Rim is less congested than the South Rim, and there are miles of gorgeous driving and hiking paths to explore.

Visiting the Grand Canyon provides several opportunities to enjoy some fresh air and exercise. If extreme activities aren’t on your itinerary, you may go hiking, horseback or burro riding, rafting, swimming, or simply take a leisurely walk.

Big Sky, Montana 

Located in southwestern Montana, Big Sky is a community of over 2,300 inhabitants with lots of winter activities to enjoy.

The community had two large ski resorts the Big Sky Resort and Moonlight Basin that merged in 2013 to create the “Biggest golf and ski resort in America.”

The number of family-friendly events and activities, like sledding, snowmobiling, snow-go bike rides, ice-trekking, and cross-country skiing, make January a terrific time to visit Big Sky.

A 7-day trip to Big Sky costs an average of $2,853 for a single traveler, $5,124 for a couple, and $9,606 for a family of four.

Big Sky hotels cost between $112 and $510 per night, with an average of $197, whereas most vacation rentals cost between $300 and $800 per night for an entire house.

We suggest setting up $82 to $200 per person per day for transportation and dining out.

Palm Desert, California

Palm Desert is the ideal winter retreat, with its natural hot springs, luxury hotels, country clubs, gourmet restaurants, golf courses, and sunny weather.

The city boasts over 360 days of sunlight each year, with temperatures hovering around 80F in January.

Its neither too hot nor too cold weather makes the city suitable for all kinds of relaxing activities from hikes and treks to sunbathing and golf. Easily one of the nicest spots to visit in the United States in January or February.

Just keep in mind that this year’s Palm Springs International Film Festival has been canceled  “to ensure the safety of our patrons, filmmakers, and staff.”

New York City, NY

There’s no better place to be in December than New York City. With the arrival of the holidays, a variety of unique activities and events, such as ice skating, Christmas markets, and dazzling illumination displays, begin. Get yourself a warm jacket (you’ll need it!) and venture out to see what this fascinating city has to offer.

Things you MUST do:

Ice skating in Central Park

Ice skating in Central Park is a must-do December activity in New York. This is ideal if you’re looking for a fun activity to do with family or friends.

Walk Down Fifth Avenue

Strolling down the shopping Mecca of New York City during the holiday season is a real delight. Make the most of experiencing the city itself while surrounded by stunning Christmas installations. 

Holiday Markets

Take some time to explore some of the city’s well-known Christmas markets. These pop-up markets provide a huge variety of buying options, including clothing, art, and gourmet food. 

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree

Flocking to the tree lighting ceremony at the Rockefeller Center is an absolutely iconic December New York activity.  The tree, which stands over 100 feet tall and has 50,000 LED lights is famous for its 50,000 LED lights in a dazzling rainbow of colors.

Keep in mind that hotel prices and airfares are high during this time of year, as visitors flood the city’s most popular sites, and shopping fever is at an all-time high, so plan your days out accordingly.

Tucson, Arizona

Explore the natural splendor of national parks and pine woods, disconnect in open-air museums and gardens, and relish in the Old West vibe.

Tucson was named “UNESCO City of Gastronomy”, making it one of only two American cities to receive the honor.

Some of the best Mexican food in the United States can be found in the city’s cafés, cantinas, and cocinas. Pozole, carne seca, and green chile stew, machaca burritos, and prickly pear margaritas are all must-tries at Penca, El Charro, and Poco & Mom’s Cantina. 

Other things to experience

Saguaro National Park,

Visitors considered it a national wonder. This park is the perfect place for those who want to experience some of the iconic southwestern landscapes. 

The Saguaro National Park spans 90,000 acres and is divided into two different parks. Most visitors, however, prefer the Tucson Mountain District for its breathtaking sunsets.

Kitt Peak National Observatory 

Kitt Peak National Observatory near Tucson offers a nighttime program with spectacular views of the night sky. Planets, galaxies, constellations, and more may all be seen thanks to the lack of light pollution.

Gulfport, Mississippi

The state’s second-biggest city offers world-class beaches and unforgettable wildlife encounters; in fact, one of the biggest populations of dolphins in the U.S. can be found off Mississippi’s shores!

Gulfport boasts beaches that span 62 miles (100 kilometers) along the coast. Casinos that offer entertainment services 24/7, exquisite seafood and of course, the well-known southern hospitality.

Every day may be a new adventure in a city with over 30 parks and water recreation areas. The Gulf Islands Water Park offers rides and pools for the entire family.

Located in the Gulf of Mexico, it enjoys a warm subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and short, warm winters.

While temperatures do drop, it rarely gets below freezing. With an average high of 90℉ during the summer and a low of 40℉ in winter layers, scarves, and gloves may be needed.

Southern California

Southern California is one of the best destinations to be during the winter months. With daytime temperatures in the upper 70s, winter will be the last of your worries.  

Even though is not really cold outside, multiple cities in Southern California dress up for the Holidays and put on a real show in December. Here are some cool things in Los Angeles and around. 

Surfing and snowboarding on the same day in L.A.

How many cities do you know where you can go snowboarding in the morning and surfing in the afternoon? Not many, right? Los Angeles is one of the blessed ones!

Take an easy 55-minute drive (46.9 mi) via CA-60 E to Mount Baldy, the closest ski resort from Downtown L.A. Then head up to Malibu, a straight 42-minute drive (32.8 mi) on I-10 W and CA-1 N for a pleasant afternoon at the beach. 

The Hollywood Christmas Parade

With lots of marching bands and a large number of famous characters, the Hollywood Christmas Parade is of the events you must experience in L.A. 

Ice Skating at the L.A. Kings Holiday Ice Rink

One of the most fun things to do in Los Angeles in December is ice skating. Kids and adults alike can ice skate in the pop-up rink, operating is open between November 30 to January 12, including Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day as well. 

Ice skating is one of the most enjoyable activities in Los Angeles these months. The pop-up rink, which is available from Nov. 30 to Jan. 12, is open every day to both children and adults.

Mustang Island State Park, Texas

Majestic Mustangs used to run free across the Mustang State Park until the last of these magnificent creatures vanished in the 1800s. The state park is still awesome and still keeps their name.

Overall, this is a fantastic destination to visit for a short stay. Here are some of the things you can do at the park – Autumn time or early Spring is the time to go to Mustang Island. Otherwise, it is hot! 

Check out: Best beaches in Texas to visit

Camping

It boasts 48 campground sites 1/3 mile from the beach. The campsite is green and flat, with covered tables and handy water and electricity hook-ups.

They have portable toilets along two miles of the beach and full restrooms and showers with hot water near the campground.

Water activities

At Mustang Island State Park, You may enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including relaxing on the beach, swimming, surfing, fishing, kayaking, and coastal bird watching – especially during fall migrations!

Paddling

The Mustang Island State Park is a great place to go paddling as it is home to some of Texas’ top shallow-water fishing spots. 

Other attractions 

While you’re there, dine or shop in the nearby beach town of Port Aransas, then travel south to the gorgeous Padre Island National Seashore.

Area attractions recommended by the park

• In Corpus Christi visit Texas State Aquarium, and USS Lexington
• Port Aransas:  enjoy this unique beach community.
• Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail – Central Texas Coast
• Padre Island National Seashore
• Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

American Samoa, U.S. Pacific Ocean territory

American Samoa is a collection of seven beautiful islands located in the heart of Polynesia, halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand. 

When tired of the crowds and restrictions of Hawaii, take a 4-hour direct flight to American Samoa. You can also reach it from Independent Samoa, which is just a 35-minute-flight away.

A particular cultural feature of the entire archipelago is the peaceful coexistence of modern American lifestyle and Samoan traditions when it comes to the language, clothing, food, and ways.

The tourism industry is small by most standards. All hotels and accommodations are locally owned, which makes visiting American Samoa a unique place to experience an international culture – inside – the United States.

This also means that Americans do not need to worry about testing or vaccination restrictions. 

New York, Ithaca

What about some adventurous staycation… in Ithaca New York!?

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Ithaca is always an amazing place to chill out or walk around during the day. The Commons has lots of beautiful locally owned shops for those who appreciate something hand-crafted and feel like supporting the local art community. 

With no more COVID-19 restrictions, it’s about time to go and enjoy live music at its open-aired patios and cozy restaurants. 

If you’re looking forward to relaxing, you can’t miss the cultural and wellness hub at the Finger Lakes region, the largest NY wine-producing region surrounded by spas, outdoor summer theatres and other multiple outdoor activities.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, GA is an enchanting city overflowed with amazing architecture and history. Proud of its Georgia heritage, the city is not afraid to tell you about its accomplishments and failures.

The historic district is a must see for any visitor to Savannah. The historic homes and cobblestone streets are unique in the State. 

Forget about the zillion tour trolleys and take a walk to the house around Forsyth Park and up towards 37th. Then go from Forsyth to the River to see hundreds of historic sites, including the Mercer-Williams house where much of the movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil was filmed.

While Savannah is mostly known for its history, there is also the touristy side. Walking tours, trolley tours, paddle boats, The Pirate’s House restaurant and tons of restaurants, bars and antique shops are there to relieve you of your money, but you will never regret it!

Savannah is not to be missed and as a fact, Savannah is one of the warmest places in the U.S., therefore is a great place to visit in the U.S. in december!

Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee is a barrier island located just 30 minutes from the small city near Savannah. The best getaway for those who need an escape from routine while enjoying the ocean breeze.

The island is home to very well-maintained beautiful beaches and offers delicious local food and lots of shops. Even when lots of people are visiting, the beach does not feel too crowded.

One of the aspects we love about Tybee is that it is pretty dog-friendly. You can bring your furry friend into bars and even almost all restaurants. However, the beach is out of limits for our little friends. 

But there’s a lovely reason behind it. The beach is also home to a number of interesting rare birds and lots of sea turtles that wouldn’t want to be chased by our doggos.  

Tybee Island also has a good number of bars offering patio seating. But if you are looking to have a romantic date the Deck Beachbar & Kitchen will serve you directly on the sand on Tybee’s Mid Beach.

Assateague State Park, Maryland

Clean beaches, camping, and friendly wild horses passing by your side is what is waiting for you at Assateague State Park in Maryland. Yes! We said wild horses!

Assateague State Park is an ocean-front park on Assateague Island. It offers two miles of beaches to do swimming, surfing and fishing. 

Since there are no trees to provide shade, we recommend you to bring fresh clothing for the day and a sweater for cold nights, but most importantly, do not miss the opportunity to explore secluded coves by canoe or kayak!

Keep in mind that you will be the habitat of feral horses, (not the other way around), so, be careful where you store your food. Otherwise, these cute animals will come over for a delicious meal!

Pro tip: If you are coming for several days, it’s better to check-in on Thursdays and check-out on Mondays to avoid getting trapped in traffic during the weekend. This particularly applies to visitors from Virginia or DC.

Ocean City, Maryland

This resort town is located between the Atlantic Ocean and Isle of Wight Bay in the state of Maryland. One of its most interesting features is that Ocean City is very much affordable for families with kids!

This city offers amusement parks, countless souvenir shops, carnivals, plenty of golf courses, lots of restaurants and a myriad of activities to do especially down near the boardwalk area, 1st street. 

When tired of strolling along the boardwalk and eating its delicious fast food, you can also take a day trip to the peaceful Assateague Island National Seashore which is only a 20-mile drive down the coast to get to know its amazing wild horses. 

Ocean City has something for everyone… from hustle and bustle in the summer to relaxing the rest of the year. 

And its best restaurants never ever close! 

Wisconsin Dells

Known for being home to the largest concentration of waterparks in America, including the largest water park (Noah’s Ark), Wisconsin Dells never disappoints. 

But not all is about water activities. Some areas of the city have nice little streets lined with stores worth visiting. Those interested in nightlife activities will feel overwhelmed with the amount of pubs and bars this city has to offer!

The city has been family-vacation oriented for more than 150 years due to endless supply of fun and games for kids. But in recent years it has also become a place for couples and adventurous travelers willing to explore its surroundings.  

All COVID-19 restrictions were declared invalid by Wisconsin’s Supreme Court a few weeks ago, in case you want to enjoy some mask-free environment.

Hawaii

Hawaii is considered a safe destination for U.S. citizens and one of the best places to travel in the country during COVID.

Why travel to Hawaii – There are a number of reasons why you should travel to Hawaii. Beautiful beaches, gorgeous scenery, great food, loads of culture, endless fun and more.

Recommended: Things to Do in Hawaii during COVID – 2021 Guide

Austin, Texas

Under the Texas laws, Austin is pretty open to tourists at the moment and definitely one of the best places to travel in 2021 during coronavirus. Face coverings are advised but not mandatory

Visitors will find an increased focus on cleanliness and social distancing at Austin hotels, restaurants and other tourist venues. 

Restaurants are open for dine-in indoor and outdoor service. Additionally, museums and tour companies have reopened for business. Live music is also back in town. Tour companies are also reopening.

Bars remain closed in Austin until further notice. 

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, a city rich in history and booming with modern attractions, is welcoming back visitors from all over the country with few to no restrictions at all. 

With lots of spectacular parks, river walks, gardens, festivals, seasonal events and a delicious local cuisine, it’s no surprise San Antonio is one of the nation’s most popular travel destinations in the States.

During the summer heat, swimming parks, public art and nightlife activities can be found not only downtown but throughout the city.

The following places and activities can be done with no restrictions and no limited capacity:

• Having Indoor meetings
• Visiting restaurants
• Going to museums
• Doing outdoor activities
• Going out to bars with food service
• Going out to bars/nightclubs without food service

South Padre Island, Texas

Looking to spend your holidays enjoying beaches with warm tropical-like weather without even leaving the U.S? If so, South Padre Island may be your place.

South Padre Island is a resort town off the southern coast of Texas located on a barrier island of the same name. Beaches are clean and they go on for miles. Although there are no private beaches on this place, the island has plenty of resort hotels along the south section of the beach.

One of our favorite features is its many public access points all along the road. It has multiple camping areas and also hosts one of the best RV parks in Texas.

This is by far, one the longest, cleanest, and full of friendly people you can find around the area. 

Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming

No restrictions for travelers – Gov. Mark Gordon lifted the statewide mask requirement back in March. The 50 percent capacity limit on large indoor events of more than 500 people was lifted back in May.

Known as the first U.S. monument, established by President Theodore Roosevelt on September 24, 1906, Devils Tower National Monument is a unique geologic wonder steeped in the Native American culture and today, the perfect fit for adventure climbers and camping lovers.

The Tower is also part of the American pop culture since it was featured in Steven Spielberg’s 1977 movie “Close Encounters of the Third Kind.”

Rock climbers can enjoy themselves by scaling the monolithic butte. Mountain bikers, hikers, horseback riders, cross country runners and off-road enthusiasts can take advantage of trail systems that encompass 1347 acres of public land. 

Yellowstone National Park, Montana

We know we don’t need to talk you into visiting Yellowstone National Park. Who wouldn’t want to see this amazing natural gem at least once in their lives? 

But in case you are still thinking if you should visit it this summer, we’ll give you 3 reasons why you need to cross it off your bucket list ASAP.

Volcanos: Yellowstone stands on the continent’s largest active supervolcano which makes it one-of-a-kind geological smoking gun in the world.

Wildlife: Yellowstone National Park is home to an incredible abundance of wildlife which is practically unmatched across the continent. It has more than 60 species of mammals including gray wolves, grizzly bears, black bears, bison, mountain goats, mountain lions and moose as well as plenty of reptiles that share their home with 318 species of birds.

Geysers: it has more than 450 geysers including the world famous Old Faithful which erupts every 91 minutes.

Just one kind recommendation – Be patient. This summer the amount of people visiting the park has been shocking even during weekdays. You might need to wait in line for over one hour to enter the gates.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Why travel to New Orleans – Its mix of French and Spanish architecture, multilingual heritage and live-music scene, and delicious cuisine are reasons enough to come visit at least once a year. 

Travel restrictions – As of today, there is no quarantine or other types of travel restrictions for U.S. visitors. International visitors must bring a negative COVID-19 test taken 72 hours prior to arrival according to the new federal laws.

The city has extended the hours alcohol can be sold in restaurants, bars, event venues, and breweries. 

Face masks are no longer mandatory and all old capacity limits were lifted from May 26.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

With more than 1,100 miles of shoreline (more than the entire California), the Lake of the Ozarks features hundreds of public beaches and lots of water activities such as fishing, skiing and swimming. 

Cities and small towns around the Lake of the Ozarks offer hundreds of vacation options including golf courses, horseback riding, boat excursions, wineries, airplane and helicopter tours, spas and shopping.

Travel restrictions – There are no travel restrictions in Missouri. International visitors must bring a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours upon arrival.

Lake Powell, Arizona

This is not your typical lake. Lake Powell in Arizona is way bigger than you may think. It covers an area of more than 250 square miles. This has helped to make it attractive to tourists that every year are flocking to it to experience the Southwest.

This lake is perfect for kayaking, swimming or just exploring it by boat. Most areas do not have access to vehicles. 

Travel restrictions – There are no travel restrictions in Arizona. The local government has allowed bars and almost the rest of the business to resume normal operations and wearing a mask is no longer mandatory. 

San Diego, California

Recommended to visit in December!

Located in the sunshine state of California it benefits from an appealing all-year round perfect weather. The city boasts a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere and has plenty to offer everyone, whether you enjoy outdoor activities, cultural events, or having a good time.

Why people love San Diego

Weather – San Diego is one of the warmest places in the United States, therefore is perfect Autumn and Winter destination.

Beaches — San Diego boasts a stunning 70-mile coastline and beaches. When in town, you can’t miss the glittering sands of Coronado or La Jolla beaches.

Activities for kiddos – popular family activities such as Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and SeaWorld make San Diego a terrific place to relax and enjoy time with family.

Wildlife – Pacific Harbor Seals and California Sea Lions can be spotted all over the San Diego coast, particularly at La Jolla.

Mexican food — San Diego is only 17 miles from the Mexican border, this means you’ll find all types of Mexican dishes all over the place.

Don’t think twice. This city has countless fascinating locations to explore, as well as some hidden gems worth discovering. Pack your bags!

Tuolumne River, California

So, do you like beer? And holidays? And Rafting? If so, this is probably the best summer adventure you can have in 2021. 

Just outside the Yosemite National Park is Tuolumne River offering 18 miles of continuous Class IV whitewater rafting. 

Companies such as OARS or ARTA offer one to three-day trips including wine on the river and & craft beer tasting trips as well as camping alongside the river to enjoy the scenic wilderness while hiking, fishing, or exploring waterfalls and swimming holes. 

We can safely say that a day (or 3!) testing craft beers and rafting in Tuolumne will sail up as the best memory you can take home this summer.

If interested, hurry up! The last tour of the year departs on September 5. 

Yosemite National Park, California

What can we say? Yosemite National Park is a place that needs to be seen, experienced and felt. The Park is home to waterfalls, pristine glaciers, abundant wildlife, hiking trails, bike trails, meadows and a river.

We particularly love the views of El Capitán, a vertical rock formation located on the north side of the park from the valley floor. 

Due to the pandemic you do need reservations to enter through September 30, 2021. 

The park wants you to know that some services and facilities are limited, and shuttles are not operating for the time being. 

But do not let this discourage you, go ahead, book your tickets, rent some bikes and enjoy the majestic views along the way!  

Lake Tahoe, California

This epic beauty has become one of the hot-spot destinations this summer. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and Alpine forests, it’s hard not to fall in love with the blue waters of the lake.

From sharing special days with friends or family skiing on the slopes of your favorite ski area to enjoying a long-lasting sunset, Lake Tahoe gives you the opportunity to reconnect with nature. 

If you are feeling adventurous, take a cable car ride up to the top of Heavenly to enjoy the breathtaking views, or go explore its countless trail systems – with your dog! 

Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall Lake Tahoe will always bring to you a different memorable vacation experience.

Pro-tip: this summer schedule your visit during weekdays. Otherwise you will spend most of your time stuck in traffic and searching for a parking space. 

Lassen Volcanic National Park, North California

Nestled in the peaceful forests and wilderness of Northern California is Lassen Volcanic National Park. This beautiful getaway is home to steaming fumaroles, boiling mud pots, wildflowers, crystal clear mountain lakes, multiple volcanoes and roaring steam vents!

A century ago, Mount Lassen erupted for the last time. Nowadays, you can hike to the summit and stand in the crater, not to mention the stunning viewpoints and miles of bike trails the park offers.

Local restrictions: All COVID-19-related restrictions were lifted on June 15.

Burlington, Vermont

There is almost always something happening in Burlington. Even though this is the biggest city in Vermont, don’t expect tall buildings with streets full of stressed people. On the contrary, Burlington it’s a lively city full of art galleries and cultural attractions with car-free space lined by shops and restaurants. 

Take a walk to its great downtown and enjoy dinner, or find one of its many options for pubs and live music on the weekends. On Saturday mornings, you can’t miss the delicatessens offered at the farmers market. 

Local restrictions: Vermont lifted its 14-day mandatory quarantine on arrival. Gov. Phil Scott fully reopened the state on June 14 once 80% of the population had received at least one shot of  COVID-19 vaccine. 

Masks and social distancing remain recommended for unvaccinated visitors. 

Panama City Beach, Florida

Situated in northwest Florida, about 47 miles east of Destin and around 100 miles southwest of Tallahassee, Panama City Beach is considered one of the best beach getaways all year round.

This waterfront town is an outdoor playground full of activities and adventure for all types of travelers. 

Its 27 miles of beaches are not only perfect for families but also for couples in search of an affordable escape with a seemingly endless amount of activities to fill any trip.

After playing with bottlenose dolphins during the morning surfing, you can pay a visit to one of the two state parks in the area, go biking or take a sunset kayaking trip.

And when feeling even more adventurous, take a short boat ride and check out the dozen wrecks and artificial reefs waiting for you.  

Florida Keys, Florida

Your summer vacation in the Florida Keys can be as action-oriented or as laid back as you want to make it. 

Adventure folks can test their skills on a fishing charter. Local restaurants will cook your catch for you, adding a starch and vegetable to make a wonderful “catch-of-the-day” meal.

Fishermen at heart can instead enjoy a party-boat, which makes for a great time of fishing. 

Famous for their white sandy and coral beaches, calm waters and friendly locals, the stunning Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key and the internationally famous Key West are waiting for you to cross them off your bucket list. 

Orlando, Walt Disney World, Florida

You can never go wrong with the city of dreams. Orlando is not only home to Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Universal Studios’ The Wizarding World of Harry Potter but also to lots of live music events, international restaurants and trendy bars.

The parks, as the rest of the city venues, have dropped all COVID-19 restrictions thanks to a new state law. Now, kids can play around without having to wear a mask. 

When you need to take a break from adventure, step into relaxing gardens for a walk or enjoy a beverage at one of Orlando’s lovely terraces. 

It’s always a good time to have a theme park experience. But keep in mind that September is less busy and prices are more affordable!

Cape San Blas, Florida

Cape San Blas features St. Joseph Peninsula State Park, a.k.a. The best beach in America. located near Port St. Joe along the Florida Panhandle’s Emerald Coast, Cape San Blas is one the best getaway paradises in Florida. 

Visitors can find all types of small restaurants, kayaking and boating services, pristine waters and uncrowded sugar-white sand beaches. 

Key West, Florida

This collection of tropical-like islands is located at the Southernmost point of Florida. The local government and Key West inhabitants have managed to recover and rebuild the tourist venues the latest hurricane destroyed, turning it into the paradise it used to be.

Adventure travelers may take a road trip from Miami to Key West. The drive takes only around 4 hours and the landscape is worth it.

Key West hosts some of the best camping spots in Florida and you should definitely take advantage of them during covid.

Gulf State Park, Alabama

Gulf State Park is just a hidden gem of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

With more than 2 miles of beaches and almost thirty miles of paved biking and hiking trails through a variety of different ecosystems, visitors can spot alligators, armadillos, osprey, bald eagles, butterflies and blue herons all inside of one of the most diverse state parks in the area. 

Its Gulf State Park campground is located just 1.5 miles from the white sand beaches of Alabama’s coast. Visitors must be aware of the new parking rules. From April 23, all beach accesses managed by the Gulf State Park have been implementing paid parking. For more outdoor adventures, check our dedicated posts on Camping in Alabama in 2021.

The park still has a number of COVID-19 related restrictions that can be consulted at what “Visitors Need to Know,” which is part of the local government official websites. 

Las Vegas, Nevada

Why travel to Las Vegas – There are countless reasons why a traveler must visit Las Vegas. But its world class entertainment, cruise, and nightlife scene should suffice for travelers to pay it a visit. 

Domestic restrictions – Las Vegas does not require domestic visitors proof of a negative COVID-19. Gov. Steve Sisolak, declared that the state is “100 percent reopened” as of June 1.

All bars, casinos, restaurants and the typical Vegas nightlife attractions are back for business. The statewide mask mandate remains in place following the C.D.C. guidance.

Groom Lake, Nevada

Hoping to have a close extraterrestrial encounter of your own? Ok, while in Las Vegas you can miss the chance to visit Groom Lake, the area where one of the world’s most top secret military facilities is actually located. 

Go ahead and jump to a place that doesn’t really need to talk you in to be super freaky — Area 51. 

We may never know exactly what’s going on inside this mysterious military base in Nevada but at least it’s a great photo op for any UFO and Alien enthusiasts!

You’ll start by visiting Janet Airlines at Las Vegas International Airport, the airline that also does not exist! but that has transported hundreds of “Area 51” workers for decades. 

Other cool stops along this outing may include a visit to Little Ale’ Inn, one of the weirdest restaurants you have ever visited, we recommend the Alien Burger (which by the way its taste is out of this world!), the Joshua Tree Forest and the Dry Lake. 

And if you are lucky, the Black Mailbox at 375 highway a.k.a. the Extraterrestrial Highway, a place where UFO lovers meet to discuss extraterrestrial topics.

Puerto Rico

Why travel to Puerto Rico – PR is a rare combination of diverse culture and heritage, warm people, and beautiful landscapes.

Travel restrictions – Travelers need to complete a Travel Declaration Form online (either in English or Spanish). 

Puerto Rico was excluded from the CDC requirement to provide a negative COVID-19 test result to re-entry the United States. However, local regulations demand visitors to bring proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours prior to arrival into PR. 

Travelers must upload their test results to their Travel Declaration Form online (links above) in order to receive an Airport Exit Confirmation Number and QR code. 

Without these two they won’t be allowed to leave the airport. Visitors do not need to quarantine. 

Is it safe to travel to Puerto Rico right now? (full post)

Other destinations close to the U.S.

Mexico – Baja California, Cancun, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Escondido

NO quarantine, no test required for US citizens!

Why visit Mexico – Its beaches, cenotes, marine life, and affordable shopping.

Is it safe? – Check our full post on traveling to Mexico right now (Baja, Cancun, Vallarta)

Travel restrictions – All countries (including US citizens) are allowed to travel to Mexico. No COVID test, quarantine, or insurance is required but you should definitely consider insurance that covers COVID-19.

Check the States that have made the Orange, Yellow and Green list. This means that in those States you will be allowed to visit hotels, restaurants, open-air parks, gyms, cinemas, theaters, museums, cultural events and more.

Consider Cancun or Baja California for your spring getaway destination. Baja has taken the lead in creating and implementing “La Ruta Turística por México (the Tourist Route through Mexico)”, to fight COVID-19 and promote tourism.

Tulum

Tulum is located in Quintana Roo, one of the most touristic states of Mexico due to its beaches and Mayan civilization history. 

Since the area is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases, multiple hotels have decided to offer up to a free 14-day stay to those who get the virus when in town. 

Creative, isn’t it?

Puerto Vallarta 

Puerto Vallarta is currently offering American visitors on-site tests (at their hotels) to ease their returning-home process. 

The local government recommends visitors to schedule their COVID-19 as soon as possible to ensure to have it on time. Travelers who test positive for COVID-19 will need to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine at a hotel-designated room/area.

Check prices here.

Puerto Escondido

Along with beachfront resorts and uncrowded beaches, hotels and famous hostel/coworking spaces such as Selina, are offering clients assistance to book their COVID-19 tests before coming back home.

Costa Rica

No quarantine, but health insurance required for all visitors

Why travel to Costa Rica – It is the perfect place for diving lovers. This country is full of wildlife natural areas such as the famous Cocos Island National Park, which is also a World Heritage site.

Travel restrictions – Costa Rican government is currently allowing travelers from all over the world. However, you will need to present proof of health insurance that covers any medical treatment and quarantine lodging. Also, fill out the new Health Pass form.

Costa Rica is no longer requesting to present the results of a negative PCR test to be allowed entry. 

Aruba

No Quarantine, just bring your negative COVID-19 test

Why visit Aruba: Its turquoise sea, constant sunshine, soft white-sand beaches, surprising natural wonders to explore, and culinary delights found nowhere else in the Caribbean.

Travel restrictions: The first step to visit Aruba is to get tested for COVID-19 and upload the negative test results and other information to Aruba’s online immigration form. 

Then visitors will need to acquire mandatory COVID-19 travel insurance. If anyone fails to provide negative COVID-19 test results on arrival they will have to get tested at the airport and self-isolate until negative test results are available.

Check here for the latest update about Aruba reopening for tourists.

Bahamas

No Quarantine, just bring your negative PCR test

Why travel to the Bahamas – Its warm weather, crystal clear waters, great shopping deals, the big all-inclusive resorts, and endless tourist activities. 

Travel restrictions – When visiting the Bahamas the first thing travelers need to do is to submit their Travel Health Visa Application.

Arrivals should not forget to bring their application confirmation and the original PCR test results with them. Airport authorities will check them before boarding and once again after landing in the Bahamas.

For further inquiries call the COVID-19 travel hotline +1 (242) 502 0829 or send a message to healthvisa@bahamas.com

Once there, you cannot miss the duty-free shops!

Cuba

7-day quarantine, and 3 negative COVID-19 tests are required 

Why travel to Cuba – The culture, the beaches, the food, Cubans, the traditional music, and more. 

Cuba is open to American tourists but in order to be allowed entry, visitors must submit a negative COVID-19 test result taken less than 72 hours before departure.

Upon arrival, all visitors must agree to get tested for COVID-19 at a local hospital and then, self-isolate for 7 days. On day 5th travelers will need to undergo another COVID-19 test. If they can produce a negative result they will be allowed to end the quarantine period.  

Check the full list of requirements at Travel restrictions for entering Cuba

These are some of the places travelers are allowed to visit

• Southwest: Largo key
• North-central: Coco, Guillermo, Cruz, and Santa María keys

Curacao

No quarantine, only 1 negative COVID-19 test

Why travel to Curacao – Euro-Caribbean culture and one of the most LGBT-friendly islands in the region.

Travel restrictions – All visitors need to submit proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken 72 hours before arrival but they do not have to quarantine.

Also, travelers need to fill out an online immigration (ED) card and complete a Health Department Passenger Locator Card prior to travel.

Bermuda

No quarantine, 2x test required, and health insurance

Why travel to Bermuda – The island country is a relatively safe destination for Americans to visit during COVID-19. It has only reported 1,657 cases and 14 deaths.

Travel Restrictions: All passengers need proof of a negative COVID-19 test result before departure, get a second test on arrival and wait in quarantine for 24 hours if the test comes back negative, or 14 days if it comes back positive. 

Additionally, visitors must purchase health insurance that covers any costs associated with quarantines and other COVID-19 related medical expenses when in the country. 

Visitors who have been in the U.K in the 14 days prior to arrival in Bermuda must quarantine for 4 days or after they receive their negative COVID-19 results.

Additionally, all travelers are also required to submit a Visitor Travel Authorization before departure to Bermuda.

Check here for the latest update about Bermuda reopening for tourists.

Antigua y Barbuda

COVID-19 test and 14-day quarantine

Why visit Antigua y Barbuda – These islands in between the Atlantic and the Caribbean are well known for their reefs and natural scenery. You can relax at one of their many luxurious resorts, go snorkeling, yachting, or explore nature. 

luxurious resorts, go snorkeling, yachting, or explore nature. 

Travel restrictions –  To be admitted to Antigua and Barbuda you need to present results of a negative COVID-19 test and undergo a 14-day quarantine. Only travelers from within the regional Travel Bubble (Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Montserrat, Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, and Barbados) are exempted from the mandatory quarantine. 

Passengers quarantining at a government-approved facility will be required to wear a tracking bracelet that pairs up with their phone. 

British Virgin Islands

COVID-19 test and quarantine until getting a second negative result.

Why visit The British Virgin Islands – Whether visitors are looking to practice water sports, go on a virgin nature adventure, or simply look forward to relaxing and being pampered, they will find what their heart desires on the British Virgin Islands.

Travel restrictions – There are multiple requirements to enter the BVI. For starters, travelers need to apply for a Travel Authorization and upload a recent COVID-19 test result. 

Once they land on the islands they will have to present a Travel Authorization Certificate along with proof of being fully vaccinated. After that, they will get retested for COVID-19 and put in quarantine until they can produce a negative result. 

With 295 reported COVID-19 cases and only 1 death to the virus, the islands are considered to pose the lowest possible risk for travelers. 

Barbados

2 negative PCR tests and a 5-day quarantine

Why travel to Barbados? – This Caribbean island offers not only the customary dreamy beaches, perfect weather and a myriad of activities to enjoy, but also one of the more robust and comprehensive hospitality structures in the region. 

Travel restrictions – The United States is considered a high-risk country by multiple health organizations. Thus, American visitors -in particular- need to comply with a set of requirements. 

New entry and quarantine protocols for vaccinated travelers will take effect on May 8, click here to learn about the latest updates.

All visitors must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test certificate issued by an approved lab within 3 days prior to arrival.  

Effective Feb. 3, 2021 all travelers will be required to take a rapid antigen test on arrival. 

Travelers with valid negative COVID-19 PCR test results must undergo a 5-day quarantine at a government-approved hotel and take an additional COVID-19 on day 5th. All at their own expense. 

If their results come back negative, they will be allowed to resume their trips. 

Cayman Islands

14-days quarantine required, and 2+ COVID-19 tests

Why travel to the Cayman Islands – They are probably one of the best places on earth to do snorkeling, sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking and kitesurfing thanks to crystal-clear, turquoise waters.

Travel restrictions – Visitors must undergo pre-arrival PCR testing and a mandatory 14-day quarantine. If after that period they can produce a negative COVID-19 result they will be free to resume their trip.

Americans are now allowed entry if they are dual citizens, permanent residents, Workers or their families, students, spouses, fiancés, or if they own residential property in the Cayman Islands (among other types of travelers).

Read more about travel to the Cayman Islands here. 

Dominican Republic

No Quarantine, just bring a negative PCR test 

Why travel to the Dominican Republic? – The best-connected Caribbean destination (8 international airports), beaches, modern cities, mountains, and colonial towns!

Travel restrictions – Travelers do NOT need to bring a negative COVID-19 test result to be granted access to the Dominic Republic. 

Once travelers arrive in The Dominican Republic the government gives them a temporary free travel assistance plan that provides coverage for emergencies in case they get COVID-19 while in the country. 

The insurance plan includes medical attention by specialists, medical transfers, transfer of a relative, penalty for airfare changes, and lodging for prolonged stays among other benefits up to US $10,000.

The free travel insurance program has recently extended until July 31, 2021.

St. Maarten

No Quarantine, just bring a negative PCR test

Why travel to St. Maarten – Sint Maarten has all of the wonders of a unique tropical paradise. Additionally, the entire island is duty-free so you can find great bargains on clothes, cosmetics, jewelry and electronics.

Travel restrictions – Visitors who provide a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken 120 hours before arrival do not need to quarantine. They only have to upload their test results to an online card prior to traveling Sint Maarten. Find more information here. 

Sint Maarten lifted its “shelter-in-place” policy but social distancing protocols must still be observed when in public.

US Virgin Islands

No Quarantine, just bring a negative PCR test

Why visit the U.S Virgin Islands – Its beaches and turquoise waters, its year-round sunshine, and it’s incredibly vibrant culinary scene. 

Travel restrictions – All travelers aged 5 years or older must apply for entry through the USVI Travel Screening Portal within five days of traveling. COVID-19 test results will also need to be submitted through the portal, which will then issue a travel certification. 

Additionally, if a visitor is not able to produce a negative COVID-19 test they will need to undergo a mandatory 14-day quarantine or the duration of their stay, whichever is shorter, at a government-approved location at their own expense. 

Click here for further information.

Grenada

Only a 4-day quarantine and a negative PCR test

Why travel to Grenada: This often overlooked Caribbean island has plenty of charm to offer. From colorful towns, spice-scented markers, the mix of cultures of its people, and of course its natural scenery; it is a paradise to be discovered.

Travel restrictions – Travelers must apply for a travel authorization (link here) and get tested for COVID-19 at least 3 days before arrival. 

Upon arrival in Grenada, they must pay a one-time $150.00 USD ($410.00 XCD) test fee, which will cover their day-four test or any test taken while on Island. After that, travelers will need to quarantine for 4 days at a government-approved accommodation or until they can produce a negative test result. 

This requirement includes fully vaccinated visitors.

Visit Grenada’s Travel website for more info.

Tanzania – Zanzibar

No test and no quarantine

Why visit Tanzania? – Tanzania is mostly famous for its paradise called Zanzibar. This little island is literally a dream of every traveler with crystal-clear water all around.

Tanzania is one of the favorite destinations during COVID-19 in 2021 because of its relaxed travel restrictions and it’s also open for U.S. citizens.

To enter Tanzania, no test or quarantine is required, and also the local restrictions aren’t heavy. Due to Tanzania’s medical infrastructure, purchasing health insurance is highly advised. 

Houston

Houston is the ideal destination for a trip with friends, a romantic getaway or a family vacation. You can easily fly to Houston to watch a sporting event, stroll through the Museum District, relax poolside at one of the many five-star hotels, and spend your nights enjoying delicious cuisine thanks to the many direct flights from all over the United States and Canada. Houston has become a popular dining destination in the U.S. and is now known for its excellent cuisine.

Rent a bike and cycle along the miles of paved trails in the parks or on the city streets for a leisurely city experience in the fresh air. At Buffalo Bayou Park, rent a kayak and paddle the Buffalo Bayou.

On your way to the nearby beaches of Galveston, you can make a stop at Space Center Houston, which you can reach in less than an hour.

Waikiki

Waikiki is one of America’s most popular beach destinations, offering all the comforts of home on a gorgeous tropical island in the Pacific Ocean.

Waikiki is a suburb of Honolulu known for its beautiful golden sand beach that stretches along the beachfront and is surrounded by hotels and shopping establishments.

Rent a surfboard and test your talent in the waves, then go shopping and enjoy excellent dining options in the evening. This is an ideal vacation spot for everyone, from families to couples to singles.

The post 58 Best Places To Travel Right Now In USA in 2023 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

As part of their reopening policy, TAT stated that starting on March 31 international visitors can further their stay in the country. Those entitled to visa exemption can stay for up to 45 days and those eligible for a Visa on Arrival can stay for 30 days.

Another new policy is that starting in June, foreign tourists arriving in the country will be required to pay a $12 fee. According to the Straits Times, this fee will support visitors involved in accidents and develop tourist destinations. 

However these fees, “won’t be collected from foreigners with work permits and border passes,” said Tourism Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn

In a statement TAT Director Santi Sawangcharoen said that we, “welcome all visitors to Thailand without proof of vaccination or a negative ATK or RT-PCR test result…With the simplified entry process, the Kingdom’s vibrant culture, cuisine and natural beauty are able to remain the focus of travel to Amazing Thailand.”

Previous rules made it more difficult for international travelers to visit Thailand but with the relaxing of restrictions the TAT hopes more tourists will flock to the country. 

Just recently for example, the government said all incoming airline passengers would have to show proof of full vaccination. Anyone 18 years and older would have to show this proof or recovery from COVID-19 within the previous 180 days.

Another rule that was in effect was that travelers had to present a travel health insurance policy upon arrival. The coverage would have to cover at least $10,000 of coronavirus treatment.

When leaving the country and returning to countries like India and China, travelers will be required to present a negative test before returning home.

The post Thailand Reverses Its Decision On Adding New Entry Requirements For Visitors appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

International tourists no longer have to hold a Vaccine Pass nor have to do mandatory on-arrival testing.

Due to being a Special Administrative Region of China, it has relative autonomous power and as such kept strict lockdown and curfew rules during the pandemic. 

John Lee, the leader of Hong Kong, made such announcements ahead of the New Year looking forward to 2023 in hopes to regain its international status and align with other global financial hubs in Asia. 

Hong Kong is following China which just weeks ago reopened its economy and ended the cycle of lockdowns in urban centers and its quarantine policy. 

Despite the recent spike of cases on the mainland, Hong Kong has loosened its leash on restrictions. 

Starting Dec 29, these measures apply to tourists arriving in Hong Kong:

• No Vaccine Pass
• No more Covid testing on-arrival
• No isolation for close contacts of infected individuals
• No post-arrival quarantine
• No more mandatory testing between days 0 and 5

Travelers can revel in the fact that they do not need to show a Provisional Vaccine Pass upon arrival and go several RAT tests for the first five days of their stay. And if tourists received a positive result in that five-day window, they were forced to quarantine until a negative test result. 

Lee also confirmed that vaccination status will no longer being an official requirement for entry into Hong Kong. 

The only measure in hand is a pre-departure test per The U.S. Consulate for Hong Kong. This means a PCR within 48 hours of arriving or a Rapid Antigen 24 hours ahead of boarding.

The post Hong Kong Drops Most Of Its Covid Entry Restrictions For Tourists appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Follow the standard precautions when visiting any new place, and you will have a trouble-free trip to Florida.

You might be interested:
– Best Places To Travel During Covid in U.S.
– Best beaches in Florida to Visit this Fall

Is it safe to travel to Miami now?

Miami is generally a safe place to visit. Despite its reputation for crime of all kinds, it is as safe as any other Western megacity. The main tourist destinations, especially the far north, have undergone gentrification.

This suggests that muggings may occur at night in dodgy places.

Pickpocketing and purse snatching are the most common petty crimes in Miami, especially on Miami Beach and in the crowded streets of downtown.

Be careful and use common sense. Hold on to your purses and be mindful of how you carry them.

Is it safe to travel to Orlando now?

Orlando is generally considered a safe place to visit. Tourists should stay away from some neighborhoods in Orlando that have higher crime rates. Orlando visitors should be wary of petty crimes and parking ticket scams.

Orlando is divided into numerous neighborhoods and suburbs. West of downtown Orlando, in the neighborhoods of Pine Hills, Malibu Groves, Carver Shores, Signal Hill, Lake Sunset, Roosevelt Park and Washington Shores, are the problematic neighborhoods with the highest violent crime rates. However, there are numerous safe lodging options in Orlando. The weather is often cited by visitors as the most dangerous part of their trip to Orlando.

Hurricane Season in Florida

During the six-month Atlantic hurricane season, which lasts from June 1 to November 30, the threat of hurricanes is very real for Florida.

If you want to be as safe as possible from hurricanes and still enjoy the pleasures of visiting Florida, the interior of Florida on the northern border with Georgia is the best place to visit. It is the least hurricane-prone area in Florida.

December 14 – State data reveals a decrease in Florida’s crime rate.

Crime in Florida has reduced by 8.3 percent, according to a report by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

The offenses include homicide, rape, burglary, serious assault, larceny, and theft of a motor vehicle.

In some Panhandle counties, crime dropped. Crime fell by 2.8 percent in Calhoun County. Crime decreased by 10.3% in Okaloosa County. One of the greatest declines was in Bay County, which fell by 17.4%.

“I’m very pleased with what I see,” said Sheriff Tommy Ford, Bay County. “We don’t use this as a mission accomplish banner, we use it as a barometer that what we’re doing is either working on is not, and I’m thinking in this case it shows that how we’re approaching crime as a community, as a system, as a whole is working.”

November 22 – Tourism in Florida surpassed pre-pandemic levels in Q3

Florida received record numbers of visitors in the third quarter of 2022, according to Governor Ron DeSantis. According to VISIT FLORIDA, Florida received 35.1 million tourists between July and September 2022, up 6.9 percent from Q3 2021 and marking the fifth straight quarter in which total visitation exceeded pre-pandemic levels. 

32.6 million domestic visitors, up 18 months from 2019, visited Florida in the third quarter of 2022, according to VISIT FLORIDA. Florida has received 104.5 million visitors so far this year, up 4.1 percent from the same period last year and up more than 15.3 percent from 2021.

To guarantee that tourists continue to enjoy Florida and are not discouraged by Hurricane Ian’s effects, VISIT FLORIDA has created a $2.7 million campaign to inform travelers that the “Sun is Shining in Florida.”

Why visit Florida in COVID times?

First and foremost – Florida has no entry restrictions!

Florida is an internationally recognized destination due to its Theme Parks and tropical weather. Travelers who love going to theme parks will never go wrong with Florida. In COVID times, when traveling has to some extent become a hustle, especially for people traveling with kids, Florida stood as one of the best destinations in 2021.

We have to be careful with the new Omicron variant. However, once the situation becomes stable again, Florida will probably once again become one of the most popular travel destinations also in 2022, especially among American citizens.

UPDATES ARCHIVES

November 3 – Tourism in Florida on its way to recovery after Hurricane Ian

Hurricane Ian, a Category 4 storm, destroyed the region from Naples to Fort Myers to Port Charlotte to Sarasota on September 28, severely hurting tourism in Southwest Florida.

Economic recovery initiatives are already picking up steam in the area of Florida’s Gulf Coast, which is renowned for its gorgeous, serene beaches, boating, marine life, and more.

Donations can be made to the Support Fort Myers Hospitality Workers Relief Fund in order to help residents who have been affected and displaced as a result of Hurricane Ian. All donations will be given to employees of the hospitality industry in the following communities: Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel & Captiva Islands, Pine Island, Matlacha, Boca Grande, and the outer islands; Fort Myers, North Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero, Cape Coral, Alva, Buckingham, and Lehigh Acres.

January 10 – Florida reporting record numbers of daily COVID-19 infections

Florida reported more than 126,000 new COVID-19 infections over the weekend – the highest multi-day increase since the beginning of the pandemic. The state reported 77,156 new cases on Saturday and 49,548 on Sunday.

The spike is attributed not only to the rapidly spreading Omicron strain but also to increased testing.

On the other hand, hospitalizations remain below their peak. Over the weekend, 9,888 coronavirus patients were hospitalized in Florida. Whereas in summer 2021, there would be over 17,000 new hospital admissions every day.

Source: NBC Miami, Miami Herald

December 13 – Coronavirus cases in Florida rising faster than in any other state

COVID-19 cases in the sunshine state have recently been rising faster than in any other state in the U.S. Also, three Omicron cases were confirmed in Florida last week.

According to the latest data from The New York Times, Florida recorded a 185 percent increase in daily coronavirus cases over the past two weeks, compared to the national increase that is now around 43 percent. On average, Florida is reporting nearly 2,000 new coronavirus infections a day.

On the other hand, around 1,404 people are hospitalized with COVID-19 each day. This figure has increased by six percent over the past fourteen days.

Source: Newsweek

November 18 – Florida to pass bills limiting COVID-19 vaccine mandates

On Wednesday, November 17, Florida Republicans passed four bills that would protect workers who do not wish to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to Gov. Ron DeSantis.

If he signs the documents, Florida will become the first state that can fine companies who require the vaccine for employment. However, most companies do require COVID-19 vaccines, but employees can opt out for health or religious reasons.

DeSantis is expected to sign the bills in the upcoming days.

Source: Axios News

October 5 – COVID-19 cases in Florida finally dropping

For the week of September 24 to 30, the positivity rate in Florida has dropped to 6.5%, the lowest number since June.

In the past week, around 4,600 new infections daily were registered in the county. While during August, there were more than 21,000 new cases per day reported in Florida on average.

Through September and October, the number of hospitalizations has also been dropping. In the last week of September, they decreased by around 27%.

Florida COVID-19 Update for October 1, 2021

Total Confirmed Hospitalizations: 5,146 pic.twitter.com/g3UyfmsZO6

— Florida Hospital Association (@FLHospitalAssn) October 1, 2021

Source: Local 10 News

September 6 – Florida tourism continues to bloom despite high number of COVID-19 cases

Despite the spike in COVID-19 cases, tourism in Southwest Florida continues to rise. Actually, Lee and Collier Counties have had a record-breaking year in tourism.

Brian Hamman, Lee County commissioner, indicated that August 2021 numbers had been the best August numbers in the history of tourism tracking in the region. Other months have not been behind either. ‘In fact every month this year has been better than it was even in 2019.’ he said.

Usually, tourism tends to slow down by the end of summer in Florida. This year, the season is not over yet. Hotels there are still fully occupied, and they are starting to get booked for winter, too.

According to Hamman, people want to enjoy a bit of time off. But are scared of the international travel restrictions. Therefore, they choose somewhere they know, like Florida, for example.

Source: WINK News

August 24 – Pediatric cases make up to 20% of new COVID-19 infections in Orange County, Fla.

According to Alvina Chu, an epidemiologist with the Florida Department of Health in Orange County, pediatric cases make up to 20% of new coronavirus infections in the county.

The trend seems to be shifting. While the positivity rate in the 25 to 44 age group remains high, children aged between 5 to 14 years old now contribute the most to the newest COVID-19 cases.

Based on data from HHS.gov, as of Monday, August 22, there were 257 pediatric cases across Florida, 176 of which were hospitalized.

The predominant strain is the highly contagious Delta variant which affects all age groups. The median is 34 years.

Source: WKMG News

August 9 – Hospitalizations skyrocketing in Florida as DeSantis defend unvaccinated citizens

The number of current COVID hospitalizations is “unlike anything the state has seen before,” said the head of Florida’s largest hospital association earlier today. 

Even in the face of irrefutable evidence, Gov. Ron DeSantis will maintain his “no-mandate” mandate which means that zero coordinated actions will be taken to control the spread. 

He also added that the media is just being “judgmental,” against those who are unvaccinated. 

However, DeSantis’ press secretary Christina Pushaw recognized that only 6% of hospitalized people are vaccinated. 

“We recognize that cases and hospitalizations have shifted to a younger demographic because we have been so successful with vaccinating seniors,” said Pushaw.

Source: MSNBC News

July 15 – COVID-19 cases in Florida on the rise while Gov. DeSaints forbids companies to safely resume activities

The Department of Health of Florida has reported an unusual increase in COVID-19 activity over the last week.

Over the last 7 days, the state counted 23,747 new cases with a positivity rate of 7.8%. The trend was at about 4% positivity in the past weeks. Also, Florida reported 172 new deaths. 

Even considering the figures, Gov. Rob DeSantis continues to refuse to allow companies to require customers of “risky activities” to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

As reported by The Washing Post, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has sued Florida’s surgeon general, accusing the state of preventing the company from “safely and soundly” restarting operations.

Source: AP

June 29 – Florida to resume cruise ships with both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers next week

Cruise ships are set to safely resume operations next week in Florida. 

Local mayors of South Florida had sent a letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis asking him to reconsider his refusal to ask cruise travelers to present a vaccine certificate, but their claim was not heard. 

“There aren’t restrictions either way, whether you are vaccinated or unvaccinated that shouldn’t limit your ability to participate,” Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody told reporters. 

This does not mean cruises won’t be safe. Unvaccinated travelers will need to bring a negative COVID-19 test, get retested in the embarkation hall prior to boarding. Furthermore, some cruise venues will be “for vaccinated people only.” 

(Source: Local10Florida)

June 14 – Florida to lift all COVID-19 related restrictions on July 1

Effective July 1, Gov. Ron DeSantis will lift all COVID-19-related restrictions across the state. So far, only 48.8% of the population has received at least one jab of a vaccine, which is insufficient to reach herd immunity according to the CDC.

According to the governor, “If we have widespread vaccinations that are over 99% effective, what’s the evidence basis for somebody to wear a mask now?” 

Over the course of the pandemic, he has refused to follow most of the epidemiology guidelines because he did not want to “take the same approach as other lockdown governors.”

With this new executive order, DeSantis will make sure that “local governments cannot arbitrarily close [our] schools or businesses.” Additionally, he barred businesses from requiring employees to provide proof of being vaccinated.

Source: Florida Political review

The post Is It Safe to Travel to FLORIDA Now? (December Update) appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

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Japan Opening Tourism – Latest Updates

November 2 – International travelers to Japan exceeded 200,000 in September

Slowly but surely, foreign visitors are returning to Japan. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, 206,500 foreign tourists visited the nation in September.

The number has never exceeded 200,000 since the pandemic began. South Korea had the most visitors with 32,700, followed by Vietnam (30,900), the United States (18,000) and China (17,600).

Since March, the government has gradually relaxed border controls, resulting in a sharp increase in foreign tourists compared to 2021, when Japan’s borders were virtually sealed. Compared to September last year, the number of tourists has increased by more than 11 times.

October 13 – Japan reopens its borders, but hotels are understaffed and stores closed

Compared to a record 31.8 million tourists in 2019, only slightly more than 500,000 people have visited Japan so far in 2022.

The government’s goal, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said, is to generate 5 trillion yen (34.5 billion euros) in annual spending on tourists. But for a sector that has shrunk because of the pandemic, that goal may be too lofty.

Maria Satherley, a 70-year-old New Zealander, describes the Terminal 1 departure area as “like half a ghost town”

Most of the 260 stores and restaurants at Narita Airport, Japan’s largest international airport located about 70 kilometers from Tokyo, are closed.

September 29 – Japan to allow international tourists on Oct. 11

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated that independent travelers will be welcomed back to Japan on Oct. 11. The daily cap on the number of tourists arriving will also be lifted on that day.

Travelers from around the world will be able to enter Japan with proof of triple vaccination or a negative COVID -19 test result. The country will not require a visa for short-term visitors from qualified countries, including the United States.

“I hope many people will utilize them,” Kishida said at a news conference. “I want to support the travel, entertainment, and other industries that have been struggling during the coronavirus pandemic.”

Related: U.S. Airlines Respond Rapidly To Japan’s Reopening

How safe is Japan at the moment?

The CDC has recently placed Japan at Level 3 risk (High Level of COVID-19 in Japan).

Who can visit Japan?

Individual tourists from multiple countries.

COVID-19 situation in Japan

As of October 13, Japan has seen 21,656,190 cases of COVID-19, and 45,693 people have lost their lives to the virus.

What to do in Japan during pandemic

Domestic travel has been largely unimpeded in the country ensuring that Japanese citizens continue visiting their own tourism sites.

This means that many attractions have begun to reopen for tours.

This includes a wide array of Japan’s most popular sites, including the Tokyo Tower, Imperial East Gardens, Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo National Museum, and more.

Below is a list of the most popular tourist attractions open in Tokyo and their current state of business.

• Tokyo Tower (reopened)
• Tokyo Government Building observation decks (closed indefinitely)
• Kyu Shiba Rikyu (reopened)
• Tokyo Disneyland (reopened)
• Tokyo DisneySea (reopened)
• Guided tours of the Imperial Palace (reopened)
• Imperial East Gardens (reopened)
• Hama Rikyu (reopened)
• Rikugien (reopened)
• Edo Open Air Museum (reopened)
• Shinjuku Gyoen (reopened)
• Koishikawa Korakuen (reopened)
• Kiyosumi Garden (reopened)
• Showa Memorial Park (reopened)
• Ghibli Museum (reopened)
• Institute for Nature Study (reopened)
• Sumida Hokusai Museum (reopened)
• Tokyo National Museum (reopened)
• Tokyo Skytree (reopened)
• Sumida Aquarium (reopened)
• Edo-Tokyo Museum (reopened)

Source

Disclaimer: Travel restrictions and governmental regulations can change rapidly and the information below might be outdated within a few hours. Therefore, double-check all information with your embassy or on official websites. Traveling Lifestyle does not take any responsibility for your decision to travel.

Japan reopening for tourism: Updates Archives

September 19 – Japan could drop entry restrictions by October

Japan intends to remove most of the Covid-related restrictions on foreign tourists, including eliminating visa requirements and allowing individual tourism before the fall travel season, according to local station FNN.

The broadcaster, which did not specify where the information came from, said these restrictions will be eased for travelers who have been vaccinated three times or have a negative Covid test.

Earlier, Nikkei Asia reported that visa requirements, which deter many leisure travelers, could remain in place. Officials are arguing over whether the restrictions should be lifted all at once or gradually.

One of the latest updates suggests that Japan could drop all restrictions by October.

September 9 – Japan allows non-escorted visitors on package tours as of Sept. 7

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced last week that Japan will allow unescorted visitors on package tours and increase the daily arrival cap to 50,000 beginning Sept. 7.

“In countries worldwide, international exchange is growing. To participate in these exchanges and to benefit from the weaker yen, we will raise the daily arrival cap to 50,000 from Sept. 7, as well as allow (tourists on) nonguided tours from all countries to enter the country,” Kishida said.

The prime minister also stated that he will explore further easing restrictions based on various conditions at home and abroad, with the goal of bringing border controls in line with other members of the Group of Seven major countries.

August 26 – Japan might scrap the Covid testing entry requirement in September

The Japanese government announced this week plans to ease some of the travel restrictions. In September, they will double the daily tourist limit, and also scrapping the testing requirements required for entry is on the table. This would mean traveling to Japan would be almost back to normal.

August – Japan continues to slowly ease its entry restrictions 

The Japanese government is increasingly easing these restrictions and allowing a greater number of foreign nationals to enter the country through various visa pathways. Although significant restrictions remain in place, foreign nationals seeking to enter Japan now have more opportunities to do so than at any time in the past two years.

Just last month, Japan reduced the isolation period for close contacts of COVID-19 cases from seven to five days. A negative test even allows only three days of quarantine, but test kits are hard to come by.

The country still allows only 20,000 people per day to enter the country and requires proof of a negative test result within the past 72 hours, a provision that the U.S., U.K., and Germany have eliminated.

June 30 – Japan only received 1,500 tourists since it reopened for “tourism” on June 10

Only about 1,500 foreign visitors entered Japan in the month since it reopened to tourists on June 10, according to the Immigration Services Agency of Japan.

The agency and the Japan Tourism Agency explain the low number by the lengthy procedures involved in visiting Japan. 

Tourists must produce proof of a negative PCR test and get a sightseeing visa. In addition, they are limited to taking group trips, which are not as popular with Western tourists.

To make matters worse, Japan currently has the highest number of COVID instances reported on a daily basis of any country, a questionable distinction that is dashing hopes the government may reduce its rigorous border controls.

With 196,000 new cases nationwide reported on Tuesday, Japan surpassed both the United States and Germany and reached the second-highest level ever.

July – Covid-19 cases on the rise in Japan after the country lifted restrictions

Local authorities have their hands full trying to keep up with the rapidly growing number of coronavirus patients.

Since the government is not curtailing activities, it now faces the double dilemma of preventing an overload of the medical system while trying to keep society running as usual.

“If the number of seriously ill patients increases, it is possible that hospital beds will become occupied for a long period of time,” said Hironori Sagara, director of Showa University Hospital in Tokyo.

On Saturday, the number of new infections reached a record high of more than 110,000 across the country due to the spread of the highly transmissible BA.5 omicron subvariant.

June – Japan reopens to groups of tourists from 98 nations

Japan opened its borders to foreign tourists on Friday and is beginning to accept applications, but only for those on guided package tours who are willing to wear masks and follow other antivirus measures, as the country tries to balance business and infection concerns.

“Active exchanges between people are the foundation of the economy and society,” said Prime Minister Fumio Kishida while delivering a speech at the Future of Asia conference in Tokyo. “From the 10th of next month, we will restart the admission of tourists on guided package tours.”

According to the Japan Tourism Agency, tours are approved from 98 countries and territories with low infection concerns, including the United States, the United Kingdom, China, South Korea, Thailand, and Singapore.

May 18 – Japan is Reopening for Tourism to 4 Countries on May-end

On Tuesday, May 17, government officials announced that Japan will accept some tourists from the U.S., Australia, Thailand, and Singapore on a trial basis starting at the end of this month.

According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism, these travelers will be allowed into Japan provided they all have booster shots and are part of a government-approved tour group with a fixed itinerary.

The trial will allow the government to learn how to respond if (when) a positive case is discovered in the event the borders are fully opened.

However, according to Kyodo News, the government plans to massively welcome tourists in June.

May 2- Government should normalize its entry bans ASAP, say panel members

Masakazu Tokura, chairman of Keidanren, Japan’s largest business lobby, said authorities should “gradually resume” allowing travelers to enter the country to combat the country’s shrinking of the income which is largely due to a decline in travelers

He and other four private sector members also suggested that the government should specify the criteria for additional relaxation in order to help potential tourists plan their return.

After the meeting, Daishiro Yamagiwa, the minister in charge of the government’s COVID-19 response, said that “the government agrees with the private-sector members on the direction we should go toward eventually opening the border to tourists.”

“But the timeline of easing the regulations should be decided appropriately,” he said, adding that the course of the coronavirus pandemic remains unpredictable.

April 18 – Japan lowers entry restrictions for 106 countries 

Japan eased its entry ban on 106 countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and France, on April 8, after two years of strict border controls.

In addition, up to 10,000 arrivals are now allowed per day provided that they are triple vaccinated and have a negative pre-departure Covid-19 test.

The new regulation only applies to business travelers, foreign students and researchers.

Read our full post: Japan To Lift Travel Restrictions On 106 Countries Including The U.S. From April 8

April 4 – Japan raises its entry cap to 10,000 people per day from April 10

Japan will allow in 10,000 non-tourist visitors per day starting April 10, up from the current 7,000, the top government spokesman said Friday. 

In recent weeks, the government has begun to ease its “most stringent” border controls among the Group of Seven nations, according to Prime Minister Fumio Kisida.

“Japan plans to increase international movements of people in stages by taking into account the infection situation at home and abroad and border control measures that other major nations have taken,”  Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said at a press briefing.

March 22 – Japan Removes Covid-19 restrictions on Bars and Restaurants

The Japanese government lifted coronavirus restrictions on bars and restaurants across the country on Monday, ending what had been referred to as “officially voluntary” limits on business hours.

It also lifted its “quasi-state of emergency” in 18 prefectures, including Tokyo and Osaka, on Tuesday, citing a drop in new infections.

It is the first time since January that Japan has no emergency measures in place.

The daily average of new coronavirus cases in Japan is reportedly falling after peaking at almost 100,000 last month.

March 5 – Japan to rise daily arrival cap to 7,000 March 14

Starting March 14, Japan will increase the daily limit for international visitors to 7,000 people and extend quasi-emergencies in 18 of the country’s 31 prefectures, according to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Businesses and universities have complained that the existing cap is unsustainable, given that there are an estimated 400,000 foreign nationals waiting to enter the island.

According to Kyodo News, when corporate travel is not in demand, this travel scheme will give students entry priority.

“We will take further measures to rejuvenate social and economic activities if we can more clearly see an exit of the sixth wave in the future,” Kishida told reporters.

February 18 – Japan to allow international students and business people back in from March.  

Beginning in March, the Japanese government will allow a “limited number” of international students and business people to enter the country, said Primer Minister.

The decision was made in response to pressure from the business and academic sectors, as well as a drop in Omicron cases in 36 prefectures.

When reviewing border policy, the government took into account “the situation in other countries.” “However, loosening [the rules] all at once is not realistic,” he added.

The PM did not provide further details about entry requirements.

February 7 – Business leaders urged Japan to reopen borders 

Unlike other Asian economies that have closed their borders owing to a zero-COVID-19 policy, Japan is reporting over 100,000 daily cases, making the border closure incomprehensible to most travelers and business people.

More than 100 top Japanese academics penned a public letter urging Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to allow at least international students to enter the country under strict health restrictions.

Business leaders in Japan have begun to lobby the government to loosen restrictions. Keidanren, the head of Japan’s powerful business lobby, has warned that businesses can no longer rely on just domestic consumers.

Analysts believe that by keeping borders close Japan risks alienating allies. But the government remains silent in the face of such claims.

January 27 – More than 33,000 people have signed a petition for Japan to reopen its borders

Over 100 academics and international relations professionals signed a letter to Japan’s Prime Minister last week urging him to reopen the country to foreign arrivals.

According to researchers, local labs have been struggling due to a shortage of overseas students and workers.

People who have been denied entry have protested outside Japanese embassies. An online petition advocating for the admission of students and employees has received more than 33,000 signatures.

The government said last week that it would make an exemption for students, but just 87 state-sponsored students were permitted to enter.

Japan has yet to announce whether it will extend the border restrictions that are set to expire at the end of February.

January 12 – Japan has extended its travel ban on all countries until the end of February.

Japan has extended its travel ban on almost all new foreign arrivals until February-end and reopened mass-vaccination centers as it battles a spike of cases, announced the government Tuesday.

“The infection situations regarding Omicron are clearly different at home from abroad, so the framework (of the current border controls) will be maintained until the end of February,” Kishida told reporters.

The government would consider some exemptions for foreign family members of Japanese people as well as people studying in Japan but it has not been confirmed yet. 

Read our full post: Japan Extends Entry Ban On Foreign Travelers Until February

December 19 – Japan to extend the ban on all countries until early next year

The government banned all foreign nationals from entering the country on Nov. 30. It also imposed tighter quarantine restrictions on anyone returning from countries where the Omicron variant had been confirmed.

The restrictions were supposed to be in place for a month.

However, Japan’s Prime Minister has said that the government will extend the tightened border restrictions into early next year when they can collect more information about the new variant.

According to a Japanese official, maintaining the current border restrictions in place beyond next month is also an option.

December 4 – Japan has closed its borders to all international travelers

Japan announced it will suspend entry of all foreign visitors from all countries amid concerns over the new COVID-19 variant.

“This is a preventive, emergency measure to avoid a worst-case scenario,” said the Prime Minister. “This is an extraordinary measure for the time being just until we know more about the omicron variant.”

Returning Japanese travelers must undergo a 14-day mandatory quarantine regardless of their vaccine status. 

Read our full post: Japan Closes Borders To All Foreigners Due to Omicron Variant

November 9 – Japan started reopening borders for some categories of travelers on Nov. 8

Japan started to reopen borders for business travelers, foreign students, and technical interns on Monday.

Entering Japan is still not easy. In addition to the country’s strict entry restrictions, companies that host or sponsor these travelers must commit to “meticulously managing their movements.”

It may turn into a titanic task given that Japan has already issued visas for over 370,000 of these newly allowed travelers, who are now waiting in line to enter the island. 

The government has stated that this process will be carried out in stages. Despite the fact that this is a significant step forward in Japan’s reopening, the country will remain restricted to tourists for the time being.

October 28 – Tokyo and Osaka lifted some nightlife restrictions

Tokyo eased most restrictions on bar and restaurant opening hours on Oct. 25 after COVID-19 infection cases dropped dramatically, officials announced last week.

Osaka also lifted restrictions on the same date. Both prefectures asked restaurants and bars to limit the number of people who can sit together to four until Nov 30, which is a great step ahead.

Tokyo, a city of 14 million inhabitants, has been reported an average of only 47 cases per day over the last 7 days. 

“Vaccination has been making great progress. We have seen cooperation with anti-infection measures. As a result, infections have been rapidly contained,” said Tokyo’s governor.

October 14 – Japan evaluates timing for resuming a popular subsidized travel scheme

The “Go To Travel” program started in July 2020 aiming to boost domestic travel, but it was temporarily suspended due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus.

As the local COVID-19 restrictions ease, Japan looks to revive the popular travel program, said the newly appointed minister for land, infrastructure, transport, and tourism. 

“It is important to balance the prevention of contagion and the promotion of tourism.”

The minister also revealed the country expects to receive 60 million inbound tourists by 2030.

October 4 – Japan eases restrictions for vaccinated inbound travelers

Japan’s Prime Minister has agreed to reduce the quarantine period from 14 to 10 days for visitors who can provide evidence of being fully immunized against the coronavirus with one of the approved vaccines. 

Up to date, Japan has approved Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines. Travelers vaccinated with China’s Sinopharm and the United States’ Johnson & Johnson are considered unvaccinated.

The country also lifted a great number of local restrictions. Businesses are now allowed to serve alcohol and theme parks to increase capacity.

Read our full article: Japan Lifted State of Emergency But No Signs Of Tourism Reopening

September 12 – Japan would ease COVID-19 restrictions in November

The Japanese government plans to ease restrictions around November when Covid-19 drugs will be more accessible for the population. 

Under the new scheme, businesses would be permitted to serve alcohol and remain open after 8:00 p.m.

Additionally, fully vaccinated people would be allowed inter-prefectural travel again. 

For now, the State of emergency will be extended through Sept. 30 in Tokyo and nearby cities. 

Source: Nippon TV News

August 14 – Japan to issue vaccine passports for outbound travel, but continues to be closed for inbound tourism.

Japan has started issuing vaccine passports for international travel. The plan is to streamline international travel for Japanese people but it does not mean that they will accept inbound travel yet. 

To date, Japan has agreements with Italy, Austria, Sri Lanka, Slovakia, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Vincent, Thailand (Phuket, Samui, Pha Ngan, Tao, only), Germany, Turkey, Papua New Guinea, Bulgaria, Belize, Poland, Hong Kong, Honduras, Lithuania and South Korea.

The country is struggling to be accepted by other nations because most countries are not willing to allow Japanese visitors without any reciprocity. 

Source: NHK.org

August 28 – Japan expands state of emergency through Sept. 12 as Delta cases increase – No reopening in sight

Japanese officials have expanded its state of emergency to Aichi, Gifu, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, Mie, Miyagi, Okayama, and Shiga prefectures from Aug. 27 to Sept. 12 to fight the uncontrollable COVID-19 cases overwhelming the health system. 

“Critical cases have spiked suddenly and the medical system is in an extremely dire state,” said Economy Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura at a panel of experts.

Some 90% of ICU beds are now occupied with coronavirus patients in Tokyo.

Considering these numbers, the government is reluctant to provide a border reopening date. 

Source: Aljazeera

June 22 – Japan to launch travel vaccine passport in July

Japanese travelers will have access to a new vaccine passport from July, according to the government. 

This paper-based certificate (not digital) is supposed to permit Japanese travelers to have easier access to other countries.

“We are preparing to issue a certificate of vaccination for those who need one… when they visit foreign countries,” Japan spokesman Katsunobu Kato said at a press conference.

The government also announced the ending of the state of emergency from June 20. Only Okinawa Prefecture will remain under the measure through July 11.

(Source: Nikkei Asia)

May 10 – Japan is reportedly working on Vaccine passports to reopen international borders

Japanese authorities are reportedly working on a vaccine passport app. This app will be connected to the Japan Vaccination Record System and the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. It will keep record not only of travelers’ vaccination certificates but also of negative COVID-19 tests so unvaccinated travelers don’t feel discriminated against. 

This means Japan is also working on a reopening plan to allow international visitors. So far, the country is open for essential travel only and this exception does not even include all countries.

Japanese Minister Taro Kono said that if other countries have already started using vaccine passports to reopen travel, “so Japan will have to consider it too.”

March 11

Japan has had to make a tough decision not only for the world but also for its own economy. The government has officially decided not to extend their invitations to this summer’s Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics Games to foreign visitors.

Officials say the country is obligated to protect the Japanese population from a bigger spread of the coronavirus and its new variants.

The Olympic Committee and two other organizations will be announcing this decision to the international community possibly next week.

The post Japan Is Open For Tourism And Had Over 200K Visitors In September appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Travel to this South American country will once again be unrestricted. The state of emergency imposed since March 2020 has officially expired as of November 1, 2022.

All extensions of the state of emergency proclamation, including travel bans and domestic COVID restrictions, have been also lifted.

This means that travelers will once again be able to enter Peru without any restrictions following the announcement that the country’s state of emergency has ended.

In the past, visitors had to show confirmation of vaccination or negative COVID test results produced within 48 hours of entering the nation.

The regulations in this South American nation were among the harshest in the entire world.

These ever-evolving limitations over the previous two and half years included strictly enforced curfews and lockdowns, requirements for vaccinations and booster shots in order to enter most businesses, and laws regulating the use of interior and outdoor masks in some cases requiring KN-95 masks or double masking.

However, all COVID-related regulations, such as the requirement to vaccinate and wear masks, will be lifted once the state of emergency is lifted.

This means that regular tourism in Peru can resume from November 1, 2022.

Travelers will no longer need to pre-register with Peru’s immigration app, sign an affidavit or present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test to enter the country.

The post Peru Scraps All Covid-Related Entry Restrictions After 2.5 Years  appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.