By Stephanie Sical
With surging COVID-19 cases in America, it’s been the year of road trips for those fortunate enough to travel. The pandemic created difficult times for many, financially and health-wise there’s no question it has been a struggle.
However for many other Americans this has been a reset year since they were able to accomplish some goals which includes saving money.
This year has been for the most part about isolation, work and studying. However, traveling somehow has a nice sound to it and would be a great alternative for the rest of the year or plan for the deserved vacations that many dream. Since it has been a very unpredictable year, all trips allow changes, so there’s no worry of potentially wasted money.
However, if you do choose to end up opting for traveling, it may come with some challenges and advise to do an intense and precious research regarding the traveling restrictions and depending your destination of choice plan accordingly.
Despite COVID-19 continuing to claim lives, other countries around the world have begun to reopen. According to usa.gov/americans-abroad Coronavirus International Travel Advisories, as of Aug. 6 the State Department is no longer advising US citizens to avoid all international travel because of COVID-19.
For now, travel may look different in a number of ways. People can expect to explore a world of face masks, physical distancing, and still enjoy the beauty of nature and a relaxing stay at a 5-star hotel for a lower price at their own risk of facing challenges to any international travel at this time that may include mandatory quarantines, travel restrictions and closed borders.
Foreign governments may implement restrictions with little notice, even in destinations that were previously low risk. If you choose to travel internationally, your trip may be severely disrupted and it may be difficult to arrange travel back to the United States. These are the returning policies to the United States from the following countries:
US Citizens returning from Brazil and legal permanent residents are allowed to return from Brazil. Any U.S. citizen returning to the United States who has been in China in the previous 14 days may be required to have 14 days of quarantine.
In Europe it’s versatile but recommended to visit the Embassy webpages on COVID-19 for information on conditions in each country or jurisdiction. Many embassies have further information on travel restrictions, quarantine policies and other general suspensions.
On cruise ships In order to curb the spread of COVID-19, many countries have implemented strict screening procedures that deny port entry rights to ships and prevent passengers from disembarking.
Many college students despite this information with hunger of wanderlust may find this helpful and most importantly affordable.
Graduations are coming up and what’s a better graduation gift than a trip to any of the foreign destinations listed? It’s safe to say that traveling may be cheaper but more complicated than it ever was before.