Feeling Cooped Up Too Long?
As the COVID-19 vaccine continues to be distributed across the globe, countries looking to boost their tourism numbers—and economies—are changing their entry requirements and restrictions, making it easier for vaccinated travelers to visit.
Here is a list of the countries already welcoming American tourists who are fully vaccinated and their new travel policies.
According to the Belize Tourism Board, this Central American country will waive its COVID-19 testing requirements for travelers who can prove that they have been fully vaccinated. International travelers must book their stay at a government-designated “Gold Standard Hotel” and download its health app.
Non-vaccinated travelers can also visit Belize, but they must prove a negative PCR COVID-19 test was taken within 96 hours of travel, or a negative rapid test was taken within 48 hours. The traveler also has the option to test upon arrival at the airport for $50.
IN GEORGIA, the U.S. Embassy has stated that American travelers who have received both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine are welcome to enter the country without getting tested before arrival. They will also not be required to quarantine.
Un-vaccinated visitors must arrive with a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours, get a follow-up PCR test on their third day in the country, and complete an application with their contact details and travel history.
Seychelles is welcoming fully vaccinated travelers as long as they can prove that at least two weeks have passed since they received their second dose. Unlike other countries with new rules for vaccinated travelers, proof of a negative COVID-19 test still is required. The person must have taken within 72 hours of traveling. Travelers must also fill out a health travel authorization showing their certificate of vaccination, test results, flight confirmation, and accommodation details. According to the Seychelles tourism board, once the majority of the country’s population is vaccinated, it will reopen to all travelers regardless of their vaccination status.
Previously, travelers headed to Romania were required to quarantine upon arrival. Now, the country’s National Committee for Emergency Situations has eased that restriction for vaccinated visitors. Travelers have to prove that at least ten days have passed since they received their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
Although it is no yet, Greece is aiming to reopen to fully vaccinated tourists on May 14. International tourists with coronavirus antibodies or negative test results will also be welcomed to visit, though official requirements have not been announced. In the meantime, the country is hoping to increase its vaccination numbers, and plans are in place to begin vaccinated tourism workers once the elderly and medically vulnerable populations have received a vaccine.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet has to offer and to share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.