Travel news
As most of us prepare for a winter looking at the same four walls we’ve been staring at for the past eight months, the idea of getting on a plane and travelling for more than eight hours feels like a dream too impossible to imagine.
Although all travel is off limits during lockdowns, once restrictions lift there are options for holidaying further afield. Here’s everything you need to know…
Waiting game
Nearly all countries require travellers to present a Covid-19 negative test result. The most widely accepted is the Antigen PCR test. Unavailable through the NHS (its are reserved for people with symptoms), be prepared to pay around £175 for a test and certificate. Postal tests (£145) take 48-72 hours to process.
Shop around
Travel insurance is one of the major concerns when travelling to a country with an FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) or DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) warning; most policies will be void.
There are, however, two companies willing to cover holidaymakers visiting these destinations. Battleface has years of experience protecting humanitarian aid workers and journalists in difficult territories. Its services are being snapped up by safarigoers in Kenya or sunseekers in the Algarve.
Single-trip policies include Covid cover for under-59s (older travellers can still make use of standard benefits, but won’t be able to claim for medical expenses resulting from Covid-19). Travellers aged 60 to 74 can buy medical cover from Seven Corners.
Flex appeal
Many operators, airlines and lodges offer flexible booking options. Ethiopian Airlines, for example, will cover medical expenses (except for over-79s) up to €100,000 for anyone diagnosed with Covid-19, plus costs of up to €150 per day, for up to 14 days, for anyone forced to quarantine. When it comes to ground arrangements, many properties will allow holidaymakers to change bookings or offer a refund if plans change due to lockdowns or contracting Covid-19.
Check, check, check
Every country has different regulations. Double-check with individual embassies or tourism boards. Established tour operators can also provide excellent advice.