This is an article “Getting Back on the Travel Track” by Marc Pulisci.
As 2021 sets in, more challenges meet travelers in international airports all around the world. In the US, all incoming passengers from abroad will need to undergo a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Antigen test during the first three days upon their arrival starting January. Likewise, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises every tourist to get a test prior to boarding a plane so they can show proof that they are negative of the COVID-19 virus. Better yet, carry with you an official letter from your local health ministry which certifies that you’re all clear for travel.

New US travel rules
The year also paves the way for more new regulations in the travel scene including the airlines’ duties to confirm that all passengers are negative of COVID-19 before boarding the plane. Should a passenger refuse to take the test (because unfortunately, there are some who think these are all political propaganda), then they may do so but will not be able to board and travel.
Just as jet setters were beginning to see that bright light at the end of the pandemic tunnel for travel, a new strain of the virus emerged from the United Kingdom imposing stricter measures globally for air travel. And rightfully so as the new variant is considered to be more transmissible—by 70%— and sadly, despite all the measures implemented by health officials, that strain has landed on US shores already.
Higher travel rates
Every travel enthusiast is ready to say goodbye to 2020 and their year-long bouts with cabin fever. As 2021 begins to show brighter prospects in the tourism scene, the travel industry can’t help but frown at the flicker caused by the new COVID variant slowly spreading globally. Though vaccines have already been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, the possibility of shutting another year of travel can prove to be tragic for the entire global industry.
One way travel agents keep their lights on is by offering great deals for passengers which include low deposits. However, these might be ephemeral as once tourism gates open up worldwide, prices will go up again—even higher than before due to the new normal demand. This is justified due to more add-on services such as sanitary measures and travel insurance for every passenger just to name a few.
With these prospects, travelers should prepare for the reality of higher rates from the short to medium term until all returns to normal. According to projections, this will come anywhere from 2022 to 2023, so you better plan ahead and have your travel bucket list in check.
Tech in favor of tourism
The good news, though, is that travel will eventually become easier with the many tech tools available on the market. Soon, smartphones will be every traveler’s best friend, giving more helpful details on destinations, track-and-trace features, and schedules than ever before.
New travel health apps like CommonPass make it easier for travel officials in destination countries to see your negative COVID test results and ensure tourism safety and data privacy. With that, more startups are also going into the travel niche by utilizing digital technology that make it easier for travelers to connect with travel agents regarding offered tours. Check out apps like Tourlane, or Evaneos to discover more potential destinations you can add to your holiday plans.
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