What’s open for travel?
By: Andy Huizar
Air travel has been in decline the last few months due to coronavirus. Airlines have reported record-breaking drops in passengers which have led to the cancellation of thousands of flights.
Subsequently, airlines such as Delta began blocking the middle seats of their cabins in order for passengers to practice social distancing. As the holiday season causes a peak in traveling, some airlines have revealed blocking middle seats will not be possible on fuller flights.
Now, what begs the question is: Where can Americans travel to right now?
Some countries such as England have seen a low-demand for travel to and from the states which has led airlines such as American Airlines to simply cut them for the time being. Below are destinations that are welcoming United States travelers:
The Bahamas
For those wanting a little island-time, The Bahamas still remains a getaway destination one may travel to. In order to board a flight, visitors must provide a valid Travel Health Visa and a negative COVID-19 test (taken five days prior to arrival). Visitors must present the paperwork again to immigration officials upon arrival.
Barbados
Since the U.S. is still seen as a high-risk country by Barbados, American travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test of up to 72 hours and quarantine in a hotel for seven days. Travelers will need to take another COVID-19 test and if negative, their quarantine will officially be over.
Brazil
Although Brazil is still considered a “do not travel” country, U.S. passport holders are still allowed to enter. Travelers are only required to take a health screening test at airports and wear a mask when in public.
The British Virgin Islands
After being closed for nine months, the British Virgin Islands reopened for tourism in early December. Visitors need proof of travel insurance and a negative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test taken up to five days prior to arrival. Once on one of the islands, travelers will need to take another PCR test and wear a government-issued wristband monitored device. They must quarantine for four days in a hotel and take another PCR test afterward. If negative, travelers will be allowed to explore providing they practice social distancing and wear a mask.
Dominican Republic
Probably one of the most relaxed destinations to visit in regards to protocols, travelers will need to fill out a health questionnaire and attest to not having any COVID-19 related symptoms in the past 72 hours. One must wear a mask in public and abide by the 9 p.m to 5 a.m curfew.
Egypt
In order to visit the Red Sea or the pyramids, travelers will need to present a copy of a negative PCR test up to 96 hours prior to arrival. Upon arrival, a 14-day self-isolation is required in order to limit the number of COVID-19 cases. Health insurance will also be required.
Guatemala
The enchanted rainforests of Guatemala will require visitors to present a negative PCR test taken 72 hours prior to arrival. One must fill out a health form as well.
Ireland
Although Ireland is open for travel without restrictions, the Irish Government has asked visitors to only go for essential purposes, and not for holiday. Upon arrival, one must fill out a passenger locator form and quarantine for 14 days.
Mexico
Mexico remains open to its American neighbors. Visitors must go through a health screening at airports and abide by the regional rules of masks and curfews.
United Kingdom
Travelers must be quarantined for 14 days if visiting any of the countries within the United Kingdom. This can be maneuvered if travelers spend 14 days leading up to their visit in one of the approved travel corridor countries. Itinerary and contact information must be provided before arrival and a fine of over $1,300 will be charged for quarantine violations.