Now that travel to Italy and France is once again possible, as things are starting to slowly open back up, I though I would share a coronavirus travel update and a few tips that might help in planning that long-awaited trip.
CORONAVIRUS TRAVEL UPDATE FOR ITALY AND FRANCE
Proof of Vaccination, Negative Covid Tests and Masks are the Norm
Proof of vaccination (or negative Covid tests) and masks are still required to fly to Italy and France in order to avoid the mandatory quarantine. But this month, both countries have also instituted further requirements for a green pass. It’s a bit confusing, but it basically means you’re now also required to show this proof to visit museums, dine indoors, attend concerts, large gatherings or other indoor activities (like food shopping).
You can fill out a digital green pass and show your phone or just produce your vaccination card or proof of negative test – either will work. Keep in mind, if you’re not vaccinated, a negative test is only good for 48 hours. After that, you’ll need to be re-tested every two days at your own expense, and provide the current test results in order to take part in the above activities.
Masks will also be required inside or outside when around large groups of people where social distancing isn’t possible. Plan accordingly – pack and travel with a few extra masks.
Expect Limitations and Restrictions
Due to social distancing measures and reduced capacity in public places, like museums and restaurants, you should expect it to be more difficult to get reservations. Reserve well in advance. Prepare to wait a bit longer for basically everything and be very flexible. You may not be able to visit every museum or restaurant on your wish list, so it’s a good idea to have alternatives in mind or a Plan B or C.
Passports
Normally, it’s advisable to have at least six months left on your passport in order to travel. Right now there are reports of huge backlogs for renewals, which may put a damper on your plans to travel this fall if your passport is expiring. Many people aren’t able to get their passports renewed, even in emergency situations. It’s difficult if not near impossible. Be aware of this and plan accordingly. Renew early, leave plenty of time. And the same advice applies for obtaining a new passport.
Rental Cars
Most rental car companies were forced to sell off much of their stock to keep their companies afloat, which means right now cars are scarce. If you do happen to score one, prices for booking car rentals are exorbitant right now – in many cases two to three times the normal rate. Instead of a road trip, it may be better to choose destinations accessible by train. Or pick one destination, do a deep dive and really live like a local. It may be the perfect time to spring for a private driver or car service as those rates are now competitive when compared to renting a car.
Independent Travel and Private Tours are the way to go
Most travelers will feel safer keeping their bubble small, which is why large group tours may not be popular or advisable. Traveling independently with just your group and arranging the occasional private guide, cooking class experience or wine tour is likely the safest, but also the most available as private guides and tours are plentiful. Large group tours offer less flexibility and have far more restrictions.
Travel Insurance Doesn’t Cover Pandemics
Travelers learned the hard way last year that most insurance policies (even cancel for any reason) won’t cover your losses due to the pandemic. Instead, I recommend spending a little extra to book fully refundable hotels, airfare and tours. Make sure to ask what happens if you need to cancel. The trusted guides and providers I work with are happy to just rebook for another date in the future or offer full refunds if that’s not an option.
A FEW OTHER PIECES OF CORONAVIRUS TRAVEL ADVICE
Travel is always stressful, but traveling in times of the coronavirus has taken stress and anxiety to a new level. Now, more than ever, it’s important to be patient and flexible. Build more time into your itinerary and expect everything to take longer – from planning, to time at the airport, to providing your documentation wherever required. It’s important to stay organized, make checklists and triple check your documentation.
Consider this permission to slow down a bit. It might actually be a perfect time for slow travel. Spend more time just wandering. Spend time outside. Both Italy and France have amazing and beautiful outdoor green spaces, parks and gardens. Take full advantage of them, the social distancing and the fresh air.
Incorporate lots of picnics and street food into your plans. Or book a week-long stay at a gorgeous villa and lounge at the pool all day. Sip wine. Stroll through an olive grove.
The only certainty right now is that things are continually in-flux. To those who have been waiting patiently to take their dream vacation, now is a great time to start planning for spring of 2022 and beyond. Email me if you have questions or want to discuss a trip for next year.
CORONAVIRUS TRAVEL UPDATE – RESOURCES
Once your plane tickets are booked, it’s advisable to check with your airline for the most current requirements for flying to your destination. I also encourage you to keep up to date using the following websites:
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CDC Travel Resources
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Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
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Travel advice from the French government
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Reopen EU
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US State Department
