Here is some of the latest travel news that came out this weekend.
The Empire State Building turns 90 today. The Empire State Building has always been a symbol of optimism and resilience. It was one of the first public attractions to reopen after last year’s COVID shutdown on July 20. The building has been COVID-proofed, with timed admissions, hand-sanitizing stations, new air circulation systems and more. In other NY-related news, the landmark Plaza Hotel will reopen its doors on May 20th, more than a year after closing due to the pandemic in late March 2020.
After being closed for 412 travel, Disneyland finally reopens to the public. There are of course added safety features including temperature checks before you enter the park and plexiglass around cashier areas of kiosks. Indoor dining is closed so there are more tables and chairs outdoors through the park where people could sit and eat. Like Disney World Orlando, to have your mask off to eat there are designated areas. There is no more snacking while walking around or waiting in line for rides.
Due to expire on May 11th, the CDC has extended the mask mandate for plans, trains, commuter rail systems and bus travel. this includes those that have been vaccinated. The new expiration date is now September 13th.
Read: Will I Need A Mask to Cruise
Canadian Health Minister Patty Hajdu says her government supports the idea of a “vaccine passport” and will come up with a form of vaccine certification to allow vaccinated Canadians to travel internationally. There is still no news on when they will open the borders to vaccinated travelers but it appears inevitable that American travelers will have to adapt if they want to travel outside the U.S., even to visit our neighbor to the north.
Celebrity Cruises is bringing aboard some star power for its newest ship, the Celebrity Beyond. Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud will open his first restaurant at sea. Gweneth Paltrow, Celebrity’s new well-being advisor, will be working with her team at wellness brand Goop “to bring on board some of our favorite practices and tools for deepening well-being and joy.” One of the most anticipated venues on Celebrity Beyond is the Sunset bar by celebrity designer Nate Berkus. The Moroccan-inspired escape, with conversation niches and covered enclaves, is reminiscent of a modern-day Casablanca and sure to be one of the hottest spots at sea.
Read: Celebrity Future Cruise Credits
The deadline by which air travelers will be required to present a Real ID-compliant form of identification in order to board a domestic flight has been postponed by another 18 months to May 3, 2023. according to a statement from the Department of Homeland Security.
Fully vaccinated visitors headed to the Bahamas May 1 and later are exempt from the Covid-19 test required for entry. Unvaccinated travelers still must upload a negative PCR test result taken within five days of arrival in the Bahamas. All visitors still have to complete and upload the Bahamas Health Travel Visa and are required to opt into the mandatory health insurance plan when applying for the health visa. The fee depends on the length of your stay. Browse Bahamas vacation packages.
Tauck tours update…Consistent with the CDC’s announcement on April 2, 2021, you are fully vaccinated you will no longer need to have a negative COVID-19 test prior to joining your Tauck tour. Those not fully vaccinated will still need to have a negative PCR test within five days of departure. Regardless of vaccination status, all guests must still follow safety protocols, and sign our Travel Well Pledge and Waiver.
France plan to reopen borders to non-EU travelers in June. Visitors will be required to present a health passport or “sanitary pass” that includes either proof that they’ve been fully vaccinated or proof of a negative PCR test. France tour packages will being again in later summer and you can also book 2022 trips at this time as well to take advantage of early booking deals.
Costa Rica Liberia airport announced they will offer free antigen COVID testing with result in as little as one hour. A website was set up that allows passengers to schedule an appointment for their tests, in order to facilitate access to the service. In the coming weeks, testing will also be available in Costa Rica’s San Jose (SJO) airport. Costa Rica tours have resumed operations.
Recent Cruise News:
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Do I Need A COVID Vaccine to Cruise
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