Now that borders are open I’m sure the first thought to cross the mind of most travel aficionados is ‘time to start planning my next trip’. While some of us may not quite be there yet reasons like work or school could see us making that first trip before anticipated.
Travel in the time of Covid comes with its own challenges but what you will need most is patience, a calm head and a positive disposition. Mentally prepare yourself for all manner of protocols, lengthy delays, long lines and probably some discomfort. But in spite of all that, it is very do-able and once you get to your final destination you will be glad you persevered.
Preparation is indeed key, so we’ve pulled together some tips and lessons learned from our own recent experiences that will help you be as ready as you can be to get travelling again.
Research – I can’t stress the importance of doing your research. Really look into the official tourism and Government websites of the country you plan to visit and familiarize yourself with all entry protocols. There are usually chat features on most sites, do not be afraid to ask questions if in doubt, or if you are not clear on anything. A good site to visit is also the Sherpa site. This site is updated regularly and tends to have the most current health protocols for several countries. Keep in mind that the situation is very fluid and protocols can change weekly so it is up to you to keep abreast, for example, some countries are currently not allowing entry to Trinidadians, others require a negative PCR and mandatory quarantine whether fully vaccinated or not (at your expense) while others simply require a negative rapid antigen test. Also take into consideration that some countries may require you to fill in online immigration and customs forms or health authorization forms. Not doing this could result in you not being allowed to board so do your research. It’s not enough to say you didn’t know.
Go direct – Travelling direct is your best bet at this time. This means that you need to book early. Direct travel may be slightly more expensive but it is worth it, trust me on that one. With connecting flights you could experience cancellations, delays that cause you to miss your connection and you could even end up overnighting because your connection was cancelled or missed and the only available flight is the next day. In addition, you will have to prepare for the health protocols of all countries through which you are transiting, so you will also need to know what is expected to ensure that you are in compliance.
Budget – This brings me to budget. While the cost of your accommodation, airline ticket and spending money may front of mind, take into consideration that you my have to budget a bit more to cover PCR tests (you will more than likely need at minimum 2), quarantine at an approved hotel (including meals), extra funds to cover the unlikely chance that you contract covid or come into contact with someone who has, possibility of additional nights or overnighting if a connection is cancelled and a reality today of higher prices.
Prepare, prepare, prepare – Get yourself a document holder for hard copies of all the documents with which you will need to travel e.g. PCR results, health authorizations, hotel confirmation, international vaccination card, completed pre-immigration forms. It’s also a good idea to keep a folder on your phone with soft copies of all your documents plus the data page of your passport. You can present soft copies at ports of entry but have your hard copies as a backup, anything can happen and its better to be prepared than not. Note that when you are checking in, all documents, including your hotel confirmation, vaccination card, PCR or Antigen test results and health authorizations will need to be presented. A quick tip, if completing at travel pass to enter Trinidad and Tobago, use a computer, not your phone and use a chrome browser.
Take your time – Be careful and take your time when filling in online forms, the simplest typo or mistake can turn an automatic approval into a ‘denied entry’. Make sure that you have all the required documents in the requested formats before you start to fill in online forms. This makes the process much easier.
Give yourself time – Even if checked in online, get to the airport about 3 hours ahead. Give yourself the time for any possibilities. Bear in mind that you will have to sanitise at several points so make sure that you are organized in such a way that you don’t have to rest down document holders or bags that could easily be forgotten or left behind. Be mindful.
Take care of you – Walk with easy to eat snacks, mints, your necessary medications, extra masks (I changed often as I found it difficult to wear for long periods), something to read, your favorite music and / or download your movies and shows to your devices. Several airlines have suspended in flight entertainment and depending on the length of your flight could just offer you water and a pre-packaged sandwich. If you have medical needs or are on a special diet, ensure you walk prepared, especially if there are delays.
Enjoy – Most important of all. Be positive, focus on the end goal and enjoy the journey. There are changes, yes, there are hassles and inconveniences, yes, but it all part of the new normal. Once you play your part and prepare as much as you can ahead you will be perfectly fine.
