The coronavirus crisis forced many countries to shut down their borders. This helped slow down the rapid infection rates and save many lives. On the downside, people were deprived of the opportunity to travel. As the whole world is learning to live with the virus, more countries have already lifted the restrictions or are about to. Get back on the travelling horse by starting with one of the three least obvious places to go to.
Singapore
Singapore has developed a long-term strategy plan to gradually loosen the restrictions to welcome foreign tourists. Citizens of France, the Netherlands, the UK, Denmark, Italy, Spain, the USA, and Canada can already enjoy its culture. Even more nations will soon be added to the list.
If you’re eligible, you have to show a negative PCR certificate at the border. It must be taken within 48 hours before boarding the plane. Be prepared to have another one done upon arrival. Travelers will also have to go to a clinic in Singapore to be tested on days 3 and 7. Thanks to such measures, foreigners will feel safe while exploring the country. The 2-week long quarantine isn’t necessary as well.
Poland
Poland has done great during the pandemic. Its Department of Health managed to avoid collapses at hospitals and quickly stopped the fast spread of the virus. Meanwhile, the infection rate is very low, which puts it among the safest places in the world to visit right now.
The country has implemented clear entry rules. Fully vaccinated visitors are free to cross borders without needing to quarantine. The vaccine must be approved by the WHO. You’ll have to show that it’s been at least 14 days since the second dose.
Japan
Japan is still closed to foreigners. But the authorities are planning to open the borders soon. Here are the reasons suggesting that it’ll be among the safest countries:
- Japan has strict domestic travel limitations that enabled to effectively fight the coronavirus
- The vaccination rates are impressive. As of October 2021, over 60% of citizens have received 2 doses of the vaccine, with over 70% having 1 more shot to go. It’s above the average if compared to other countries and shows that people take the coronavirus issue seriously
The government will start loosening restrictions in November 2021. Further steps towards getting things back to normal will be taken based on the infection rates.
How to Travel Safely in 2021-2022?
Here is a short universal guide to follow before you start preparing for the journey:
- Pick a country and go to its official website. Find the tourism section and check the info regarding travel restrictions and whether the borders are open.
- If it welcomes tourists, check for visa requirements. Most countries have visa abolition agreements that relieve their nationals from getting an entry permit beforehand and ease the process of border crossing.
- If you do need a visa, apply in advance to get everything ready in time. The fastest way is to use online services and skip queues at the Embassies.
- Prepare the documents. When you go as a tourist, this is what you’ll most likely need:
- Application filled in online or in the paper format
- Copies of the passport showing the tourist data
- A color visa photo (usually 2 when applying in person)
- Confirmation of accommodation (e.g. hotel)
- Copies of booked tickets (including the return ones)
- A copy of medical insurance
- Confirmation of fee payment
Check the current lists of required documents on the official websites of the country you’re going to.
Pay Attention to Photo Specifications
Each country has its own photo requirements. If you want to make sure you meet them, work with the qualified online photo tools. Here’s what you’ll need to do to get the image fast:
- Take a shot from home. A smartphone camera will do.
- Upload the image to the online photo service. You can select any country and an ID type. The software will automatically crop the picture to make it compliant wherever you go.
- Download the ready file. The link has 1 digital image to be attached to the online application and a template with 4 photos for printing if you choose to apply in person.
This online service is fast, cheap, and reliable: the image is adjusted in a couple of minutes, costs about $7USD, and fits the specifications 100%.
Things to Remember When Travelling Abroad
- It’s better to go fully vaccinated
- Use masks and alcohol-based lotions
- Keep the social distancing and avoid crowded places
- Bring a first-aid kit with meds and a thermometer. Mind your health condition regularly
- Don’t travel without medical insurance that covers the expenses if you get sick. It’s easy to catch the virus, so it’s better to be on the safe side
Traveling is not as dangerous as it used to be, say, a year ago. Many countries have managed to get the situation under control and provide a safe environment for tourists. It’s best to remember it can change at any minute, so keep tabs on the official sources before you start preparing for the trip.