At this point, pretty much everyone in the world is questioning their sanity, with all the government regulations that are constantly changing around lockdown restrictions, especially when it comes to travel.
We all know that travel is still very far from what it looked like in 2019, and as much as we would like to go back to how we operated, travelled and experienced the world, unfortunately we are constantly restricted by all the governmental red tapes that we have to adhere to. The best thing out of the past 20 months is that 2022 came around and with it a new hope to be able to travel a lot more freely.
We see more and more countries easing their lockdown restrictions. Some saying masks are no longer mandatory , no more quarantines, and travellers no longer need to test for covid if they are vaccinated.
What does this mean to you as a traveller?
What is your take on it?
No more quarantines - check. We all welcome that. I always advised my travellers, that if countries require them to quarantine, then they are better off travelling elsewhere or just travel within their own borders. Why would anyone want to travel to any country and be locked in a room from 7 straight days and still call that a holiday?
No wearing of masks - This is where you have a choice to decide for yourself. Governments can say you don’t need to wear masks, but what do you say about your own health? Are you only going to do what the government says you must and must not do. I think as adults we can think for ourselves and it is up to us to know what is best for our health. As a traveller, you can also decide what is best for you.
COVID Test??? - Oooh this is everyone’s pain at the moment. A whole lot of money is spent and generated from just covid tests. Again, what do you do when your country of destination says you don’t need a covid test to enter their borders?
My advise to you, check what your country of origin’s requirement are around testing, if you are having a lay/ stopover, check what the regulations are in that country. Airlines are regulated by the countries they operate in, check their latest updates.
These are all part of the things we check when we plan your trips, but if you’re someone who prefers booking your own trips. make sure to do your research before travelling anywhere.
Remember, countries don’t stick to the regulations they announce. Things may change over night and you, the traveller will always be the one to bear the consequences. In short, make sure you’re covered….even if it means taking the inconveniencing covid test that might not be asked for by anyone, at least when you leave your country of origin.
For all travel to and from South Africa, masks are still very much mandatory and you need to have a negative covid test. Thankfully, vaccinated or not YOU are welcome in our country!!!🇿🇦