08/08/2022
This news came across my desk this morning..... it is from an article from an online travel publication I receive daily (Travel Pulse). I thought I might share it with you:
"The COVID-19 pandemic prompted worldwide lockdowns and while most destinations have since reopened to international travel, many continue to implement pandemic-related restrictions making it slightly more challenging to enter, whether it's needing to provide extra documentation or having to purchase mandatory travel and medical insurance. For travelers seeking minimal hurdles on their summer vacation or end-of-year getaway, a handful of coveted destinations stand out as they currently have no COVID-related travel requirements (with the exception of completing a simple form in some cases) in place. You'll still need your passport of course. But here's a look at some of the world's most visited countries that are currently open to travelers with zero COVID-related entry restrictions this summer.
FRANCE
The world's most-visited country is fortunately open with no COVID-19 restrictions this summer. That means that travelers can tour the epic City of Light in Paris, soak up the sun along the French Riviera and visit other beloved stops without requiring proof of vaccination, recovery from COVID-19, or a negative test result.
ITALY
Visiting Italy became a breeze on June 1, when the country dropped all remaining COVID-19 restrictions. As of August, travelers can head to Europe and the Mediterranean to explore Rome, Venice and other popular places without proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test result.
MEXICO
Mexico was among the most accessible destinations throughout the coronavirus pandemic and continues to be a stress-free international escape, especially for travelers flying or sailing out of North America and the Caribbean. Visitors won't need to show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 nor will they require proof of a recent negative test or recovery.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Similar to Mexico, the Dominican Republic shied away from vaccination, testing and quarantine requirements following the peak of the pandemic in 2020. Currently, visitors will simply need to complete the brief and free electronic entry and exit form or E-Ticket combining the Traveler's Health Affidavit, Customs Declaration and International Embarkation/Disembarkation forms.
TURKEY
Turkey lifted COVID-19 testing requirements for travelers lacking proof of vaccination on June 1, making it easier to visit the country. What's more, masks are only required indoors in health institutions, officials announced in late May.
GERMANY
Germany recently lifted all COVID-related entry restrictions, allowing travelers from overseas to visit without requiring proof of vaccination, recovery from the virus, a negative test result or mandatory quarantine. However, visitors from China will need to present an important need to travel while those visiting from an RKI-designated virus variant area will have to submit a digital registration on entry as well as a negative test.
UNITED KINGDOM
The United Kingdom dropped any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions back in March, allowing travelers to enter without a negative test or proof of recovery, regardless of their vaccination status. Visitors also no longer need to complete a Passenger Locator Form to travel to the U.K.
PORTUGAL
Portugal has also lifted coronavirus-related travel restrictions, allowing visitors from overseas to enter without proof of vaccination, a negative test or documentation of recent recovery from the virus. Travelers can also visit popular places like Lisbon, Madeira and the Algarve without a Passenger Locator Form.
GREECE
Greece dropped COVID-19 entry requirements at the beginning of May, permitting international travelers to visit without proof of vaccination, a negative test or recovery. Tourists can also access most attractions, including museums, theaters and sporting venues without needing to show proof of vaccination.
AUSTRIA
Austria lifted its "3-G" rule requiring visitors to be vaccinated, recovered from COVID-19 or tested with a negative result in hand on May 16, allowing travelers from all countries to visit restriction-free this summer.
AUSTRALIA
Following months of anticipation, Australia lifted its remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions last month. Currently, foreign tourists can venture Down Under without proof of vaccination, a negative test result or any need to seek out exemptions.
SOUTH AFRICA
Officials in South Africa did away with pandemic-related travel restrictions in late June. In addition to vaccination and testing protocols, the country lifted its indoor mask mandates and eliminated limits on gathering sizes as well as COVID-19 border checks.
