As you can imagine, I’m getting lots and lots of questions these days from people asking about travel with relation to COVID-19.
In talking with folks, it seems like there are quite a few myths going around about travel right now, so I thought it’d be helpful for me to provide some clarification based on the current facts.
NOTE: Details in this blog were accurate at the time it was written 9/8/20.
MYTH: I am not allowed to travel internationally right now.
FACT: The U.S. Department of State removed the Level 4 global health advisory for international travel on 8/6/20, and is now advising travelers to refer to each country’s specific travel advisories for more information.
MYTH: I will be required to quarantine in my home for 14 days after I return from a trip.
FACT: The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) dropped the mandatory 14-day quarantine for returning travelers on 8/18/20. The CDC is still advising against non-essential travel, but for those that choose to, they are now recommending that they follow the same protocols that they want people following on a daily basis anyway: social distancing, wearing a face covering, washing their hands often and monitoring for possible symptoms.
MYTH: Borders of other countries are closed.
FACT: Many countries have reopened their borders and several have been welcoming visitors back for a several months already. For example, islands in the Caribbean like St. Lucia, Jamaica, Aruba, Antigua, and the Dominican Republic are open, as well as all of Mexico. Please refer to the U.S. Department of State's website to learn more about current entry requirements.
MYTH: All travel insurance covers trip cancellation due to circumstances related to COVID-19.
FACT: Standard travel insurance does not cover trip cancellations due to a pandemic, however, some “cancel for any reason” plans may cover a portion of your trip costs. Prior to purchasing any type of travel insurance, you should always speak with an insurance agent to clarify any policy coverage questions you may have.
MYTH: I’m not currently able to get/renew a passport because passport agencies are closed.
FACT: Passport agencies started reopening this summer, and as of 8/31/20, there are 25 passport agencies and centers open. They are still experiencing delays, but are anticipating a return to normal processing times this fall. Please refer to the U.S. Department of State’s Passport Operations in Response to COVID-19 page for the latest information.
I hope you find this information helpful, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about your future travel plans!
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Jodi Schlichting
Travel Advisor
612.730.5019
EverAfter Travel
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