Travel Week in Review – December 10th, 2021

The Omicron variant is the newest COVID-19 variant to gain worldwide attention when it was discovered last week, prompting governments worldwide to close international travel to and from Southern African countries, its region of origin. Already, the U.K. changed its entry requirements for all international travelers, requiring a rigorous testing regime and a self-isolation period. Four of the nation’s largest airports are screening for the Omicron variant among international travelers. Read More…

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has added a new round of destinations to its highest warning list, including popular European spots France and Portugal. The list, which is updated on a weekly basis, raised both countries to a “Level 4” and warned Americans to “avoid” traveling there. The latest update comes as the new omicron variant has spread around the world, resulting in stricter travel restrictions throughout the globe. Read More…

Holiday travelers intent on putting the top down on a convertible for a spin down the coastline or taking a four-wheel-drive vehicle into the mountains for ski season should continue to plan well in advance. The supply chain turmoil that constrained the car rental industry this summer, leading to exponentially rising prices, shows no sign of abating, and the trend is likely to continue into the winter travel season and beyond as high demand butts heads with short supply. Read More…

Many Americans are eager to start planning travel after receiving their full COVID vaccine and booster shots. And countries are once again open to international visitors—typically, with fewer entry requirements for those who are fully vaccinated. Some destinations, like Greece and Iceland, have welcomed vaccinated travelers since this spring, while others, like Chile and Singapore, are just beginning to reopen. But there’s still a lot to consider before deciding to travel to another part of the world. Read More…

Just prior to Thanksgiving, Gov. David Ige announced that starting Dec. 1 all statewide restrictions on social gatherings, gyms, bars, and restaurants would be lifted. Additionally, the state is no longer requiring county governments to obtain state approval prior to enacting emergency rules, allowing mayors more flexibility to adjust emergency regulations. However, a statewide indoor mask mandate and Hawaii’s SafeTravels Program remain in effect. Read More…