Over the past few months, many countries have relaxed their travel restrictions. For example, from 1^st November 2021, Australian citizens and permanent residents can once again enter the country without going through quarantine. The country is planning to start accepting fully vaccinated travelers from Singapore and the special arrangements that are already in place for New Zealanders will remain in place.

Other countries have already gone much further. At the time of writing, twenty-five countries are ready to accept tourists from virtually anywhere. Some have virtually no CoVid related travel restrictions in place. For example, on the 30^{th of} July Brazil announced visitors did not have to be vaccinated, nor did they need a PCR test, and that nobody needs to go through quarantine.

People are gradually traveling more

All of this is prompting many people who have not traveled far during the past 18 months to start to do so again. To the point where some countries have seen their tourism industry begin to recover. For example, according to Statistica Spain welcomed 4.7 million visitors in September 2021.

This is good news for everyone. But anyone who wants to travel to countries that have come out of lockdown and are once again welcoming visitors needs to plan carefully.

Understanding which countries are open to travelers

The first step is to find out if the country you wish to travel to is open to visitors from your country. This interactive map is a good starting point. It is updated regularly and the way the information is laid out is easy to understand.

However, don’t leave it at that. Before booking, double-check the accuracy using the travel information provided by your country of residence. As well as reading any travel advice provided by the place you want to travel to. Armed with this information you will be able to work out what you can and cannot do.

Make sure your proof of vaccine will be accepted

When doing your research, you will soon discover that most countries still require that all visitors be vaccinated and that they have official proof that this is the case. Unfortunately, when it comes to vaccination certificates there is, as yet no internationally accepted system in place. Fortunately, most governments who have opened to tourists publish the information you need to be able to work out how to confirm your vaccine status in a format that is acceptable to them.

It is also important to understand what constitutes a full vaccination in the country you are traveling to. For example, many people are surprised to learn that from 6 December 2021, Austria will only count double jabbed as being fully vaccinated for 9 months. Before that, it was valid for 12 months.

Understand the testing requirements

Many countries require every traveler to produce proof that they have recently tested negative for coronavirus. Usually, that means you must take a PCR test during a specified timeframe, before arriving in the country. Again, check the official travel websites for the country you are traveling to.

Requirements for returning to your home country

You may also require a negative test to be able to return to your home country without having to quarantine. It is wise to check and find out how to get the test you need while you are abroad.

Secure the necessary visas and vaccinations

You will also need to secure the normal visas and vaccinations for travel. There are some standard vaccines that are mandatory for visiting a country. You can consult a doctor or visit an online pharmacy available at sites similar to kentspharmacy.co.uk to be informed about those vaccines depending on the country you are visiting.

Bear in mind that things can change

The fact that infection rates are fluctuating means that there is always a chance that you will have to change your travel plans. It is important to keep track of what is going on in the country you are traveling to.

Understand and adhere to the rules while abroad

Just before you travel, double-check what the day-to-day restrictions are and pack what you need to be ready to adhere to them. In some countries, masks must be worn in public spaces or while on the street, where social distancing cannot be maintained. So, you will need to pack plenty of masks. In Austria, you will now need to provide proof of vaccination before being let into things like Christmas markets.

In many countries, digital signs help with travelling. They provide up-to-date information and reminders about what the rules are. Often, these signs are written in several languages. Many hotels, tourist attractions, and transport hubs have screens that will help you to stay CoVid compliant while traveling. Also, other restaurants or businesses that operate during this time may consider installing digital signs from companies such as National Signs or a similar signage design and installation company in the area. This might serve as a navigational tool for travelers and tourists, as well as a banner advert for the business.

All the above looks quite complicated and time-consuming. Yet, it is not putting travelers off. People are sitting down working through the process. Then, sharing details of how they got on via travel forums and Facebook groups. Making them a good place to get more information and have any questions you have answered.