Traveling Back or Into The United States
The Covid-19 Pandemic has again struck a blow to the traveling industry. Starting January 26, 2021, anyone traveling back or into the United States from outside its borders must have a negative Covid test. This will likely add more complication to people’s travel plans. This recent CDC’s Covid-19 guidelines are another way to limit exposure to the Coronavirus but, at the same time, creates another obstacle for the tourism industry to overcome.
Before boarding or entering a port-of-entry, you must have a certified letter or digital copy from a qualifying source stating that you are Covid-19 free. If you have already booked your plane tickets, most airlines have a reasonable cancellation policy. They range from credit back the cost of your ticket or will issue a credit voucher. Keep in mind that airlines offer great deals on international flights [we will discuss this later on]. If you decide to keep your travel plans, you will find below the CDC’s Covid-19 specific curriculum briefly outlined.
According To The Center For Disease Control (CDC)
Section 5 references International Travel, which explicitly outlines the policy for anyone entering the United States during this worldwide pandemic. Homeland Security, along with other federal agencies, will be enforcing the CDC’s Covid-19 guidelines.
To have proof and in your possession a negative Covid-19 test 72 hours (3-days) before reaching a United States port-of-entry.
If a positive test is detected, in accordance with the CDC’s guidelines – a self and/or monitored quarantine for at least two weeks is mandatory.
After the quarantine period, they will require that you take another test showing a negative result before you are allowed to enter the United States.
Air Travel
Most international travelers use air travel to get to their deserved destination. Here is a simple and somewhat brief explanation regarding the CDC’s guidelines and implementation. Hopefully, this will answer some of your questions when deciding to either forego or continue your travel plans.
Section 5 International Travel – specific to Air Travel – will follow all CDC’s mandatory requirements. It will have all the support from Homeland Security, along with other federal law enforcement agencies, including the FAA and TSA.
The two viral tests accepted before boarding a plane are:
A Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) is the most accurate but could take a few days to get the results.
People who are not showing Covid symptoms generally use Antigen Test. If a positive result is detected, a NAAT will confirm the Antigen Test results.
The traveler must have proof of a negative test result from one or both of the above testing methods before boarding a plane that has a United States destination. The documentation can
be a physical-certified letter or an official digital copy.
Note
All the above guidelines are the same when using a train, boat/ferry, commercial bus, shuttle service, or physically walking onto US soil through a port-of-entry. Even if the traveler has vaccination papers, they are not valid for entrance to the US. He must get the test like everyone else.
You have to understand that there are no exceptions to the guidelines laid out by the United States and its Executive Departments.
When Visiting an International Country
The CDC’s ultimate goal is to keep everyone safe and maintain extraordinary precautions to minimize the spread of this dangerous virus. When considering the situation and looking at it from a seasoned traveler or a first-time traveler’s perspective, the following practices will make for a pleasurable experience.
Maintain a healthy diet and reasonable lifestyle before, during, and after traveling. It doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun; just keep your celebrating events at a moderate level.
Wearing a mask and maintaining a safe distance in public places is essential.
Wash your hands as often as possible, and use hand sanitizer after touching handles, products, and other public fixtures.
Follow all laws and posted warnings that are specific to the country you are visiting.
Finding a Testing Site
When planning your next getaway, make sure you do your due diligence by researching a location(s) where you can get your Covid-19 test. We can’t say this enough; your test result must not exceed 72 hours before boarding your plane back to the US. If you get to your chosen testing site and it is overbooked or has unresolved issues, have a plan “B” in place. Here are a few suggestions.
When doing research, always have alternate sites if issues come up with your first choice.
If you are staying at a resort or hotel, find out if they can suggest a testing site. They might offer on-site service as well. Some airlines, travel agents, and hotels provide the test with no extra charge or have gotten a discount for their customers with the local clinics. Find out if you need reservations to get the test.
A great source of information is to talk with local residents. They will most likely know where to find a qualified clinic or hospital that will administer Covid-19 testing.
Having a plan and not waiting until the last moment will eliminate many unforeseen problems that may occur when the time comes to get the test. Again, remember to have the appropriate paperwork at your immediate access before boarding a plane – train – bus or crossing back onto US soil.
Take Advantage of The Promotions and Discounts Offered
You will find that most, if not all the airlines have discounted their airfares to record lows. This includes many international flights. What used to be a big chunk of your vacation budget has now become very affordable. In some cases, you can upgrade your seating or get discounts on added luggage fees. It’s also a great time to use those vouchers or airline credit card miles you have been holding on to. Their value has doubled, and they are ready to be cashed in.
Resorts, hotels, and managed condos and villas join the ranks in offering discounted and promotional rates. Another big part of the travel budget is your accommodations. Now is the perfect time to book your memorable stay. Instead of securing your standard or budget-minded room, take advantage of the special rates and upgrade your accommodations. If you are staying in a resort or hotel, they might be offering a discounted meal plan. Why not make a not so perfect situation better.
The Final Word
The added arrangements seem to be an inconvenience when planning your ideal trip. When choosing a destination to relax and see the sites, you don’t want to be interrupted by any time-consuming task. Don’t let this ruin your plans. You can still enjoy the beach, local entertainment, fabulous eateries, and other scheduled activities by doing just a little more planning. If you have done the research ahead of time and planned accordingly, the extra time spent will be minimal. If anything comes from this terrible pandemic, it is that you took a vacation that allowed you to enjoy some added luxuries and memorable times.
When looking to purchase or invest in a property in Mexico, if you need to travel, be sure to follow the CDC’s guidelines and implementation.
For more information, contact Top Mexico Real Estate and let one of their professional agents arrange for a personal tour with the safest measures.
Remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate … we make it happen!