the world slowly re-opens

We got some promising news about the prospect of a vaccine this week, but at the same time, we’re facing a new wave of infections in many U.S. states. What does this mean for holiday travel? Well, it really depends on how comfortable travelers are with taking precautions like wearing masks and social distancing.

We’re encouraged by the fact that recently-released, reputable studies show that air travel is very safe. And that the CDC has okayed the resumption of cruise travel, with guidance for how to resume cruising safely. But are people comfortable with the idea of traveling? Will travelers travel domestically, internationally, or simply stay home? If they do travel internationally, will they make their way somewhere other than Mexico, since there are now new destinations opening up?

For those with wanderlust and a willingness to travel, the options expanded yet again this past week. Peru announced that Machu Picchu, that venerable favorite of South American visitors, will reopen on November 15 to international visitors. We’re especially encouraged by that, since we’re taking a group on a fantastic National Geographic Journeys itinerary to Peru in April. Entry fees are waived for the balance of 2020 but capacity will be limited to 30% so if you’re considering joining our escorted departure or you want to plan your own visit, you may want to move quickly.

Nepal also reopened to trekkers and mountaineers only. These winter months feature some of the best weather for trekking. It may be worth the five days of mandatory quarantining to have these classic routes to yourself. We did a virtual trek to Everest Base Camp, recently, as a fundraiser for the Planeterra Foundation. But now you’d be able to do the real thing, once again!

For those heading south beyond our borders, consider Colombia which followed Costa Rica’s lead and eliminated testing requirements for entry. Honduras now allows a rapid antigen test in lieu of a PCR test for entry. Since Roatan features spectacular scuba diving on the world’s second-largest barrier reef, now might be the perfect time to check that off your bucket list while fares are low and destinations are uncrowded.

On the domestic front, Hawaii now allows inter-island travel as long as you have a negative PCR test within 72 hours of your flight. Oahu notably does not require a PCR test if you’re traveling there from another island.

Wherever you’re thinking of going, keep in mind that we’re available to ensure that you can travel safely, and that you’re armed with all of the information you need to stay on top of the latest entry protocols, testing requirements and supplier sanitation procedures. Traveling right now is more complicated than ever—but “complicated” doesn’t mean “difficult,” if you’ve got a travel advisor in your corner.