Since around this time in 2020, travel advisors have made it their MO to stay updated on the latest trends, regulations, and changes brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. As situations worldwide develop month to month and even day to day, we recognize the importance of staying educated to keep you safe when you decide to leave home.
From attending virtual seminars and discussions with our colleagues to utilizing social media, we consistently strive to answer any question you have concerning travel in 2021 and beyond. This past year has been a learning curve for the industry, but we take pride in how we have managed the situation. Keeping that spirit of travel alive is mostly thanks to clients like you. Your enthusiasm to explore the world, patience and feedback on the types of experiences you’re looking for has been paramount.
In addition to the efforts already mentioned, press releases from the CDC have been one of the more reliable indicators to predict just how travel preferences will change on an immediate basis. For example, on January 12th, the CDC released a statement announcing that a negative COVID test taken within 72 hours will be required for all passengers entering the United States, regardless of destination, and went into effect on January 26th.
While this is not an unfamiliar requirement to enter other countries for those who have been, or plan to, travel internationally, this development will require additional planning when considering travel outside the United States. As a result of this announcement, we travel advisors expect to see clients’ further consideration in choosing destinations that have the appropriate testing facilities and an uptick in domestic travel to avoid this new regulation altogether.
