COVID Travel Updates

One of the things in our lives most disrupted by COVID-19 is our ability to travel. As a avid traveler I am keen to hit the road again – but like many of the rest of you – I am trying to find comfort in my own home as an “armchair traveler” in 2020.

Recently I scrolled though the apps on my new TV and downloaded a travelogue on Greece. Although it gave me views of the ancient ruins from the air – a perspective rarely observed in person – I would have preferred to be tramping around at ground level. And while I can buy some retsina and feta and olives for a picnic on my balcony, I would rather be having it on a Greek beach, with white sand between my toes.

But I still check the Globe and Mail travel section and various other websites every week for any news of when we will be “on the move” again.

The good news is that travel is cautiously on the uptake:

• Air Canada has started flying to holiday destinations again, with some potential savings. Be prepared to provide evidence of testing for COVID upon arrival in many countries.
• The Canadian Travel & Tourism Roundtable website is providing regular updates on the industry. There is even an interactive map that shows where in Canada and other countries that you can go. There are currently 16 countries on the list.
• Wanderlust magazine is also providing a valuable #coronavirus travel update daily. With travel being disrupted almost constantly by COVID-19, they are updating this article daily to share which borders are closed, and where in the world is still open to travelers…
• If you do get away for a staycation or travel to a foreign country, the good news is that museums and art galleries and are now starting to re-open in many cities. If you cannot get away, many still have access to virtual exhibitions and tours.
• Canada, like many other countries, are still requiring a period of self-isolation for 14 days when you return. Unfortunatley, this extra time required will likely discourage travelers this year, unless they have a lot of unused vacation days.
• And if you are still traveling from your armchair, instead of an airplane seat, as I am – then save September 12 for the Travel and Leisure Show.

Whether on the road or at home this summer, stay SAFE Wear a mask!