New Rule for Visa Free Travel

EU New Rule for Visa Free Travel 2024

New Rule for Visa free Travel in the EU. The ambassadors from the European Union member countries recently decided to make a change to the rules for visiting Europe. They’ve come up with a new rule to make sure that countries whose folks can visit the Schengen area without a visa are playing fair.

Now, you might be wondering why they felt the need to do this. Well, it seems that sometimes the whole visa-free travel rule can get a bit messy or not work out in the EU’s best interests. So, this new law is all about helping the EU handle those tricky situations better.

Let’s break down these new EU New Rule for Visa Free Travel:

  • If a country outside the EU isn’t abiding by the same visa rules as the EU, and this leads to a large influx of people going over to the EU (especially if they’re pretty close by), the EU can hit pause on the visa-free travel.
  • The EU is keeping a close watch on what they call “investor citizenship schemes”. Basically, if a country is handing out passports like candy in exchange for money or investments without any real ties to that country, that’s a big no-no.
  • They’re also on the lookout for “hybrid threats” and any issues with document security. These could also lead to visa-free travel being put on hold.

EU New Rule for Visa Free Travel

If things between the EU and a particular country suddenly go south, especially when it comes to things like human rights and basic freedoms, the EU can hit the pause button on visa-free travel from that country.

Meanwhile, the duration of temporary suspension of the visa exemption has been increased from 9 to 12 months and can be extended by another 24 months (instead of 18 months under the current system).

During this suspension phase, the European Commission will engage in a dialogue with the third country in order to take steps to remedy the circumstances that led to the suspension.

The Schengen area is made up of 26 countries, 23 of which are EU members. The remaining four non EU countries, which are part of something called the European Free Trade Association are Norway, Liechtenstein, Iceland, and Switzerland.

The other 23 nations are Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Denmark, Greece, Belgium, Slovenia, Italy, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, France, Sweden, Spain and Croatia.

So, there you have it! Some new rules to make sure everything stays above board when it comes to visiting Europe.

Why not plan your next trip to one of these amazing Countries in the EU

China Extends Visa-Free Travel to Six European Nations!

China Extends Visa-Free Travel to six European Nations 2024!

Exciting news for globetrotters! China has broadened its horizons, offering visa-free travel to adventurers from 6 additional European countries. From March 14 to November 30, 2024, travellers from Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, and Luxembourg can explore China’s wonders hassle-free.

Here’s what you need to know about China Extends Visa-Free Travel to six European Nations:

  • Expanded Countries: Joining the roster of visa-free destinations, these European gems now offer travellers a gateway to China’s cultural treasures and modern marvels.
  • Travel Purposes: Passport holders from these countries can journey to China for tourism, business, visiting family and friends, or transit, all without the need for a visa during the designated period.
  • Facilitating Procedures: China’s commitment to streamlining travel procedures underscores its dedication to fostering international connections and promoting cross-border exchanges.
  • Diplomatic Ties: Strengthening ties with Switzerland, China’s pledge of visa-free access to Swiss citizens reflects its commitment to enhancing diplomatic relations and fostering economic collaboration.

China Extends Visa-Free Travel to six European Nations

This expansion aligns with China’s vision of a more interconnected world, offering diverse experiences to travellers, whether they seek ancient history, vibrant cities, or breath-taking landscapes.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said:

“We hope more countries will also offer Chinese citizens visa facilitation and work with us to build fast-track networks for cross-border travels and encourage speedy resumption of international passenger flights,”

Whether you’re captivated by the Great Wall’s ancient allure, the bustling streets of Shanghai, or the tranquil beauty of Guilin, China invites you to embark on a journey of discovery. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in Chinese culture, cuisine, and hospitality, free from the constraints of visa applications.

Now China Extends Visa-Free Travel to six European Nations, your next journey awaits. Explore, experience, and discover the wonders of this extraordinary destination. Let the adventure begin!

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Flynas Newest Route: Berlin to Jeddah!

Great News Flynas Newest Route: Berlin to Jeddah in 2024!

Flynas, Saudi Arabia’s premier budget airline, is proud to announce the launch of their latest milestone: a direct service connecting Berlin with Jeddah, Germany’s capital, expanding their ever-growing global flight network.

Here’s what you need to know:

  • Strategic Alliance: This route is part of our partnership with the Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP), showcased at the ITB Berlin trade show starting March 5, 2024.
  • Route Details: Beginning 4th September, 2024, the Berlin-Jeddah flight route will operate three times weekly, linking King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah with Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER).
  • Strategic Alignment: Aligned with the Saudi National Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030, our mission is to enhance air connectivity and welcome 150 million visitors by 2030.
  • Leadership Statements: Flynas’ CEO Bander Almohanna and ACP’s CEO Majid Khan express enthusiasm for this collaboration, emphasizing enhanced connectivity and cultural exchange.

Flynas Newest Route: Berlin to Jeddah!

With over 70 domestic and international locations, Flynas operates 1,500 flights weekly, serving over 78 million passengers since 2007. Their ambitious expansion plan aims to reach 165 destinations worldwide by 2030, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Experience Flynas’ commitment to providing more travel options, enhancing connectivity, and fostering cultural exchange between Europe and Saudi Arabia. This makes travelling much easier in the future from Berlin to Jeddah in Jordan. We are very excited about Flynas Newest Route: Berlin to Jeddah.

Majid Khan, CEO of ACP said:

“We are excited about the launch of this new route between Berlin and Jeddah, as we work towards catering to the growing tourism demand from Europe. This added route with Germany through flynas reflects our commitment to enhanced connectivity and a robust air connectivity ecosystem. We look forward to working with our domestic and international partners in opening new routes and offering European travelers more options to discover the wonders of Saudi Arabia.’’

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British Airways 7 Billion Transformation Plan

British Airways 7 Billion Transformation Plan

British Airways just revealed an ambitious £7 billion transformation plan at a London event, introducing upgrades across seats, routes, and digital services. With over 600 initiatives, the plan aims to elevate every aspect of the airline’s operations. CEO Sean Doyle and senior leaders announced exciting developments like new short-haul seats, free onboard messaging, and revamped digital platforms.

British Airways 7 Billion Transformation Plan

The investment includes £750 million for IT infrastructure upgrades and £100 million for operational efficiencies, all aimed at enhancing the employee and customer experience. Notable highlights include a confidentially detailed new First class suite for A380 aircraft, expected by late 2025.

Collaborating with suppliers from England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, British Airways showcased innovative new short-haul seats and cabin interiors for Airbus A320neos and A321neos. The airline also announced the return of services to Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur later this year.

In addition, a new website and app, currently in pilot phase, promise enhanced personalization and self-service features, with initial rollout plans by year-end. Executive Club members will enjoy complimentary messaging on wifi-enabled flights starting April 3rd.

Furthermore, British Airways plans to debut new lounge designs, beginning with Dubai Airport this year and Miami in 2025. CEO Sean Doyle reiterated the airline’s dedication to transformation, focusing on customer experience, operational efficiency, and sustainability efforts to reduce emissions.

While parent company IAG reported record profits in 2023, there remains a noted disparity in business travel recovery compared to leisure travel performance.

Why not plans a trip to the UK

Source: https://britishairways.com

 

Hand Luggage Liquid Rule Scrapped in Major UK Airports

Hand Luggage Liquid Rule Scrapped 2024 – great news

Great news for British holidaymakers! Say goodbye to the hand luggage liquid rule scrapped in major UK airports. London’s Heathrow Airport is taking the lead by installing security scanners in all terminals by this summer, with other airports set to follow suit.

Hand Luggage Liquid Rule Scrapped 2024

This fantastic development means you can now bring more than 100ml of liquid on your flights, depending on your destination. The Department for Transport (DfT) emphasizes that the UK already boasts top-notch aviation security measures, and these cutting-edge scanners will not only enhance security but also improve the overall passenger experience.

Already in use at Terminals 2, 3, and 5, these scanners will soon be installed at Terminal 4, according to reports from Birmingham Live. While the DfT doesn’t delve into the specifics of aviation security measures for security reasons, MAG, which owns Manchester, Stansted, and East Midlands airports, assures travellers that the scanners will be gradually introduced “lane by lane” across its UK airports.

Though Gatwick and Manchester Airports Group aim to complete the scanner upgrade by 2025, London City Airport took the lead last April, becoming the first major UK airport to ditch the liquid rule. This means you no longer need separate bags for your liquids when flying from there—making travel much more convenient for nearly 4 million passengers this year.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin of The Points Guy advises all hand baggage travellers to stay informed about the current rules at their departure and arrival locations. For transit passengers, he suggests being extra cautious. Happy and hassle-free travels with this new hand luggage liquid rule scrapped in major UK airports!

Why not plan a trip to the UK.

Zanzibar

Zanzibar named leading beach destination in Africa

Zanzibar

Zanzibar named leading beach destination in Africa

17 October 2022,

Zanzibar has been named the leading beach destination in Africa in 2022 by the World Travel Awards beating a host of other popular places such as Cape Town and Sharm El Sheik in Egypt among others at an event held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Nairobi.
Zanzibar known for its pristine beaches retained the award it won last year, as Thanda Islands in the Indian Ocean won Africa’s Leading Luxury Island in 2022.

leading beach destination in Africa

On a night of glamour and pomp with top travel VIPs from 25 countries in attendance, Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Tanzania emerged Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Lodge 2022.
But that was not all for Tanzania as Serengeti National Park, was named Africa’s Leading National Park 2022 with the Tanzania Tourist Board being named Africa’s Leading Tourist Board 2022.

Kenya however, topped off the evening by scooping the major title of ‘Africa’s Leading Destination’, capital Nairobi claimed the prize for ‘Africa’s Leading Business Travel Destination’ and KICC for ‘Africa’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre’.

‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Wedding Destination’ went to Mauritius, while ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination’ was won by Seychelles.

Kenya Airways emerged with a hat-trick of top aviation honours as it claimed success in categories for ‘Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class’, ‘Africa’s Leading Airline Brand’ and the ultimate prize of ‘Africa’s Leading Airline’.

Ethiopian Airlines took the title of ‘Africa’s Leading Airline – Economy Class’ whereas Air Seychelles celebrated with the honour of ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline’ as the ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline Brand’ won by Air Mauritius.

Speaking at the event, Graham Cooke, Founder, WTA, said: “What a breath-taking event and what a truly memorable experience was had by our blue-chip audience. WTA had the privilege of recognising the region’s leading lights as the industry marked its triumphant return in style. As stellar examples of tourism excellence, our winners have helped to once again raise the bar”.

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Behavioural differences among Gen Z and Millennials shoppers

Behavioural differences among Gen Z and Millennials shoppers

Behavioural differences among Gen Z and Millennials shoppers

The research by leading industry travel research agency m1nd-set, is the focus of a two-month study across Millennials and Gen Z shoppers this month and Middle Aged and Senior consumers in September. Among the major differences, m1nd-set reports, is their respective tendency to engage with important shopping influencers, such as communications touch points and sales staff. Gen Zs tend to approach the sales associates in Duty Free shops considerably less than Millennials. Only 38% of the younger age segment say they engage with sales associates, 30% lower than Millennials, 68% of whom interact with store staff. The research, which also compares the shopper behaviour with the average across all age groups reveals that the tendency to engage with sales associates is above average among Millennials as 65% of travellers from all age groups interact with sales staff, according to the m1nd-set research.

The impact of the interaction is also lower among Gen Z shoppers.

More than eight out of ten shoppers among Millennials and all age groups combined report a positive outcome following the interaction, while only 67% of Gen Z shoppers said they purchased a product thanks to the interaction.

Another significant difference in shopper behaviour can be seen in how Gen Zs and Millennials react to communications touch points. More than half of Millennials (55%) notice touch points prior to their purchase in GTR when travelling, above the total for all passengers, which is just below half, at 47%. This contrasts significantly with the behaviour among Gen Zs as only 15% of this younger generation say they noticed touch points prior to purchase. This indicates the generational behaviour differences in general regarding how and where the various age groups source and digest their information.

Peter Mohn, Owner & Chief Executive Officer at m1nd-set, explained: “It is extremely important for travel retail marketers marketing to Millennials and Gen Z travelling consumers to understand where to reach their target audiences when they are not travelling. For both these age segments, it’s clearly online where they can be found but among Gen Zs it’s most commonly on the mobile and via certain social media services.”

”Platforms such as TikTok, Mohn continued “have to be integral to the marketing mix for marketers who are intent on reaching Gen Z shoppers while Millennials are more prone to be across multiple platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.”

Average spend is another area where m1nd-set reports considerable differences between Millennials and Gen Z consumers in Travel Retail. Spend among both age segments is significantly lower than the average among all age groups which is US$101.

For Millennials, average spend is $70, with the highest spend allocated to the Electronics category at $124, followed by Jewellery & Watches at $118 and Fashion & Accessories at $98. Average spend in Travel Retail among Gen Z shoppers is considerably lower at $44, with the highest spend being allocated to Perfumes with $111, Electronics, $103 and Alcohol, $61.

One of the major differences is the overall spend among both age groups. Whether in domestic or Travel Retail, Millennials represent a higher proportion of the overall consumer spend. Both generations combined currently represent just over 30% of total retail spend, but this share is set to increase to 48% by the end of the decade. In Travel Retail, the spend is currently 6% among Gen Z consumers and 25% among Millennials. According to m1nd-set the Millennials’ share of spend in Travel Retail will increase by only a few percentage points by the end of the decade while the growth in spend by 2030 among Gen Zs consumers is expected to be more than
threefold.

Mohn added: “Although a sizeable proportion of the Gen Z consumer generation is still below 18 and whose purchasing power barely surpasses their parents’ allowance, the potential among this generation – both as future customers and disruptors – is not to be underestimated.

“Both Millennials and Gen Zs have a strong tendency to favour sustainable practices when shopping in Travel Retail” Mohn continued. “While they are keen on championing brands with a strong social and environmental impact and story, they are equally intent on shouting out on social media about less virtuous brands and will be quick to name shame companies and brands which do not demonstrate ethical and environmentally friendly practices. This is particularly true among Gen Zs” Mohn concluded.

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new zealand

Signalling travel recovery, New Zealand welcomes first cruise ship since 2020

New Zealand cruise ship

Signalling travel recovery, New Zealand welcomes first cruise ship since 2020

August 12, 2022, 

New Zealand has welcomed the first cruise ship to return since the coronavirus pandemic began, signalling a long-sought return to normalcy for the nation’s tourism industry. The country closed its borders in early 2020 as it sought at first to eliminate COVID-19 entirely and then later to control its spread.

New Zealand first cruise ship

Although the country reopened its borders to most tourists arriving by plane in May, it wasn’t until two weeks ago that it lifted all remaining restrictions, including those on maritime arrivals. The end of restrictions allowed Carnival Australia’s CCL, +1.93% Pacific Explorer cruise ship to dock in Auckland with about 2,000 passengers and crew Friday morning as part of a 12-day return trip to Fiji that left from Sydney.

Tourism Minister Stuart Nash said: “It’s another step in the reopening of our borders and a step closer to resuming business as usual.”

Nash said it would take some time for international tourist numbers and revenue to return to their pre-pandemic levels, when the industry accounted for about 20% of New Zealand’s foreign income and more than 5% of GDP.

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Source: traveldailymedia

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Easter Island

Chile travel update – Easter Island reopens to tourism 2022

Easter Island

Chile travel update – Easter Island reopens to tourism 2022

August 9, 2022, 

A group of more than 230 tourists have arrived on Rapa Nui Easter Island after 868 days of border closures, marking the official return of visitors to the island. This arrival was possible thanks to an agreement between the Government and the island’s communities and authorities to ensure a safe reopening, considering aspects such as health, administration, connectivity and supply, among others.

Easter Island 

“We are very happy that the easter island reaopens  is starting this new stage of reopening. Most tourist services are ready to welcome visitors, maintaining appropriate hygiene protocols and with the hope of reactivating their businesses. We would also like to reiterate our invitation to all of them to apply to the Chile Apoya programmes, especially Sercotec’s Recupera Turismo (Tourism Recovery), which has extended the application deadline,” said the Undersecretary of Tourism, Verónica Kunze.

Among the main measures adopted, the local Health SEREMI team was strengthened to increase testing, traceability and isolation capacity, increasing by 500% the staff allocated to these tasks. Hanga Roa Hospital staff was expanded by 40% and a new oxygen plant was installed that will allow adequate medical care in terms of Covid-19.

“Expectations are high, people are happy and pleased to finally have their bridge open, not only to welcome guests, which is necessary for the economy, but also to have that sense of freedom to be able to leave and return from the island”, said Pedro Edmunds, Mayor of Rapa Nui, easter island.

Reaopens  From now on, tourists who want to visit the island must present a negative PCR, taken no later than 24 hours before boarding, and for children under 6 years of age, an antigen test from a health centre will suffice. In addition, they must have their Mobility Pass (complete vaccination schedule for Chileans and vaccination standardisation for foreigners) and for those arriving directly from abroad, they must take an antigen test upon arrival to Rapa Nui. Easter Island reopens to tourism.

Chile travel update

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Removal Thailand Pass registration scheme from 1 July 2022

No more masks

Removal Thailand Pass

Thailand’s Centre of COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) today approved the removal Thailand Pass registration scheme and an US$10,000 health insurance requirement for foreign visitors, effective 1 July, 2022. Both requirements were initially removed for Thai nationals from 1 June, 2022.

Removal Thailand Pass

From 1 July, 2022, foreign nationals are only required to show proof of either a certificate of vaccination or a negative RT-PCR or professional ATK test result within 72 hours of travel. These can be in a print or digital format. Random checks will be made on arrivals at Thailand’s international airports or land border checkpoints (in 22 provinces). Unvaccinated/not fully vaccinated travellers who are random checked and who are unable to show proof of a pre-arrival negative test will be required to undergo a professional ATK test at the point of entry.

Meanwhile, the CCSA also approved the designation of Bangkok and 76 provinces as the Surveillance or green zone, thus allowing resumption of new normal businesses and activities nationwide. And while maintaining the safety and health measures under the universal prevention, the Royal Thai Government is preparing to announce a new set of guidelines as the nation is stepping into post-pandemic.

TAT Newsroom will be providing updates in detail via www.tatnews.org once the official directives have been announced in the Royal Thai Government Gazette.

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Japan entry requirements eased from June 1 onwards

Japan entry requirements

Japan entry requirements eased

May 25, 2022 -The Japanese government on Friday announced a decision to substantially relax its COVID-19 border control measures from June 1.

People entering Japan from countries and regions with a lower risk of bringing the novel coronavirus into the Asian nation will be exempted from COVID-19 testing upon arrival and will not be asked to quarantine at home.

Before restarting to accept foreign tourists, Japan will raise the daily limit on the number of people allowed to enter the country to around 20,000 from the current 10,000.

Japan entry requirements eased

Japan’s tight entry restrictions for non-resident foreign tourists are to be eased from as early as this summer! This big announcement was made by the Japanese government early this month.

Japan entry requirements – Also, the government plans to raise the cap on arrivals from the current 10,000 people daily to 20,000, further details is to be announced.

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Hong Kong travel update

Hong Kong travel update – tourism revival plan

Hong Kong travel update

Hong Kong travel update – tourism revival plan

May 11, 2022,

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has announced a revival plan that highlights Hong Kong’s vibrant developments and new experiences, aiming to generate a positive ambience and make the city a top-of-mind destination for worldwide travelers when travel resumes.

Hong Kong travel update

“The fifth wave of the pandemic is subsiding. Hong Kong’s daily life and economic activities are now gradually returning to normal, allowing us to stage large-scale events and prepare to welcome back visitors”

With the theme “Together Towards New Horizons”, Tourism Update 2022 attracted 3,200 trade representatives from travel agencies, attractions, hotels, airlines, retailers, restaurants, and meeting and exhibition organisers from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and overseas markets. The HKTB shared insights into the latest tourism trends and its work plan for the coming year.

In his opening remarks, HKTB Chairman Dr. Y K Pang highlighted Hong Kong’s return to normality. “The fifth wave of the pandemic is subsiding. Hong Kong’s daily life and economic activities are now gradually returning to normal, allowing us to stage large-scale events and prepare to welcome back visitors,” said Dr. Pang.

“Throughout the pandemic, Hong Kong travel update never stopped building and upgrading its tourism infrastructure. We will see the grand opening of the Hong Kong Palace Museum this summer, while the third runway at Hong Kong International Airport is expected to go into service within the next couple of years. With these new infrastructure elements and the support of the Central and Hong Kong SAR Governments, Hong Kong’s competitive edge has held firm and we can head towards new horizons with confidence.”

In his presentation of the work plan for the coming year, HKTB Executive Director Dane Cheng described how the HKTB will focus first on generating a positive ambience in the city, stimulating consumption, and maintaining Hong Kong’s profile globally by launching “Hong Kong Summer Treats”. The campaign will provide a wide range of discounts and promotional offerings, and will begin with “Arts in Hong Kong” – a campaign that supports international art and cultural events, such as Art Basel, which will return in a physical format.

When social distancing measures are further relaxed, the HKTB will arrange more world-class events in phases, including the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival and Hong Kong WinterFest, and give its support to other high-profile events such as the Hong Kong Sevens.

Mr. Cheng stressed the importance of ensuring a recovery at home in the run-up to the return of worldwide visitors. “These promotions will generate a positive ambience in Hong Kong and demonstrate how we have returned to normal. The HKTB will then launch extensive promotions, including the tactical ‘Open House Hong Kong’ campaign, to welcome back visitors when the time is right. To better respond to market needs, we will also strive to enhance the visitor journey into a seamless experience through a comprehensive digital transformation,” said Mr. Cheng.

“The HKTB has conducted extensive research in 16 markets and found Hong Kong is still well-loved by travelers worldwide. They have specifically identified some major driving factors to visit Hong Kong, including cleanliness, local culture, in-depth experiences, unique cuisine, high accessibility, and ease of communications. These factors are not only core strengths of Hong Kong but also match the trends and tastes of the post-COVID travel era.”

Mr. Cheng added, “With our solid tourism foundations, our status as an East-meets-West center for international cultural exchange, our position at the heart of the dynamic Greater Bay Area, and our wealth of new tourism assets and infrastructure, Hong Kong’s tourism future is full of potential.”

Guest speakers from major organisations also outlined new developments to further enhance Hong Kong’s world-class tourism infrastructure.

The West Kowloon Cultural District is one of Hong Kong’s major arts and cultural projects. Its contemporary art museum M+ opened last year and the Hong Kong Palace Museum will welcome its first visitors this summer. Speaking at the event, Chief Executive Officer of the West Kowloon Cultural District Mrs. Betty Fung said, “As a unique cultural hub with unrivaled connectivity in Hong Kong and Asia, WKCD presents the best of the eastern and western culture to visitors, from Chinese arts and antiquities to contemporary visual culture, and offers visitors a holistic experience blending arts and culture with retail, dining and entertainment.”

Hong Kong travel update – Hong Kong International Airport plays a pivotal role in maintaining the city’s status as a leading international aviation hub. Airport Authority Hong Kong Executive Director (Airport Operations) Mrs. Vivian Cheung said, “In addition to maintaining our aviation hub status, our strategy is to transform Hong Kong International Airport from a city airport into an Airport City, developing ourselves into a destination in itself for visitors. The Airport City aims to attract global visitors through its wide range of offerings in retail, dining, entertainment and leisure, while providing a business platform through its convention and exhibition facilities. In parallel, we are further enhancing the airport’s sea and land connectivity with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, with a view to facilitating a seamless journey for the 70 million people in the region to visit the Airport City.”

The integration of culture, sports, and tourism is a key development direction. General Director (Commercial) of Kai Tak Sports Park Mr. James Irvine said, “As one of the most significant sports infrastructures in Hong Kong, Kai Tak Sports Park will add vibrancy to the city’s dynamic tourism landscape with its world-class sports, leisure and entertainment experiences. A first-of-its-kind destination set in the heart of the city will bring the global community to Hong Kong.”

Hong Kong is nominated as the World’s Leading City Break Destination 2021 by World Travel Awards.

Hong Kong travel update

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Japan travel updated

Japan travel updated – border reopening for vaccinated travellers in May

Japan travel updated

Japan travel updated – border reopening for vaccinated travellers in May

May 10, 2022,

Japan is set to experiment with opening its borders to small groups of vaccinated foreign tourists as soon as this month in a potential lifeline for the country’s ailing travel industry.

Japan travel updated

Those wishing to visit must have undergone three Covid-19 vaccination shots and be part of a package tour with a fixed itinerary, FNN said, citing multiple government officials. The limited resumption of inbound tourism will be treated as an experiment and, if infections do not spread, the programme would be expanded, it said.

The report came a day after Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said in a speech in London that he planned to relax pandemic-related border restrictions in line with other wealthy democracies from June. He later added a note of caution, telling reporters he needed to look at the state of infections after a series of public holidays in late April and early May known as Golden Week. Japan travel updated

“As soon as June, based on the opinions of experts, we will review coronavirus regulations, including border policies, in stages,” Kishida said. “We are still in a period of transition back to normal life.”

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New Zealand reopens

New Zealand reopens to tourists after two years

New Zealand reopens

New Zealand reopens to tourists after two years

May 3, 2022,

New Zealand has welcomed its first international tourists since March 2020 as part of the government’s phased reopening. Visitors from 60 visa-waiver nations, including the US and UK, can now enter for the first time since the closure of borders and the ensuing implementation of some of the world’s toughest contra pandemic measures.

New Zealand reopens

In emotional scenes at Auckland airport, the first flights landed from Los Angeles and San Francisco, and arrivals handed popular locally made chocolate bars.

Vaccinated travellers are required to have a negative pre-departure Covid test. On arrival, they must self-test for coronavirus. Non-vaccinated visitors will be allowed to enter from October, unless the government decides to lift restrictions earlier.

New Zealand implemented some of the toughest measures in the world during the pandemic. It has started to easy the increasinly unpopularity of the measures with the aim to boost tourism and ease labour shortages.

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Entry requirements Greece

Entry requirements Greece – latest update

Entry requirements Greece

Entry requirements Greece – latest update

May 3, 2022,

All travellers can now enter Greece restriction-free as the authorities have decided to drop all of their COVID-19 entry rules. The Ministry said that from now on, all incoming travellers would no longer have to follow any rules.

Entry requirements Greece

This means that all travellers, regardless of their country of origin, can enter Greece without having to provide COVID-19 proof – a vaccination, recovery, or test certificate – upon their arrival. Apart from dropping the entry rules, the Greek authorities have revealed that the country has also decided to lift the remaining of its domestic COVID-19 measures. Therefore, while in Greece, all travellers can access cafes, bars, restaurants, and other public places and venues without being required to hold one of the certificates mentioned above.

Greece has already dropped the requirement to fill in the Passenger Locator Form too. Previously, this requirement applied to all travellers who entered Greece. However, since March 15, travellers from all countries have been permitted entry even if they did not hold such a form.

However, the Greek Minister of Health, Thanos Plevris, has highlighted that Greece might reintroduce its entry restrictions again in September, once the summer season is over.

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Entry requirements Greece

Entry requirements Bolivia – latest update

Entry requirements Bolivia

Entry requirements Bolivia – latest update

May 2, 2022,

NEW AND MORE FLEXIBLE REQUIREMENTS TO ENTER BOLIVIA
 

For travelers coming from abroad to the Plurinational State of Bolivia, only one of the following requirements will be required:

Entry requirements Bolivia

A) Vaccination certificate against COVID-19 in a physical or digital format with a two-dose or single-dose schedule, at least fourteen (14) days before the date of admission.

B) Certified negative RT-PCR test for persons over five (5) years of age:

  1. By air, up to seventy-two (72) hours before the departure from the country of origin.
  2. By land, river, or lake, up to seventy-two (72) hours before the entry to the Plurinational State of Bolivia.

C) Certified nasal antigen test for persons over five (5) years of age:

  1. By air, up to forty-eight (48) hours before the departure from the country of origin.
  2. By land, river, or lake, up to forty-eight (48) hours before the entry to the Plurinational State of Bolivia.

Travelers must comply with the biosafety measures established in the Plurinational State of Bolivia.

 

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Malaysia entry requirements

Updated Malaysia entry requirements

Malaysia entry requirements

Updated Malaysia entry requirements

Malaysia is relaxing virus restrictions including testing at airports and mask mandates, as infection rates flatten and the nation adjusts to living with Covid.

The country is scrapping mandatory testing on incoming vaccinated travellers and children under 12 from 1 May. Wearing masks outdoors will be made optional and social distancing measures dropped. Some entry restrictions will remain in place for unvaccinated travellers.

Malaysia entry requirements

Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia, welcomes the news. The airline is currently flying its MH1 and MH3 routes 11x weekly from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur International Airport (LHR-KUL) until 29 June and will return to its full double daily service from 30 June onwards.

Daniel Bainbridge, Regional Director UK & Europe, commented: “I am delighted to see that the Malaysian Government is removing all pre-entry and arrival testing requirements for fully vaccinated travellers. Malaysia Airlines is the only airline offering direct flights from the UK to Malaysia and international arrivals have increased dramatically since the border officially opened on 1 April. This further removal of entry requirements is an even clearer sign that Malaysia is fully open to the world, and Malaysia Airlines cannot wait to welcome more passengers onboard with our warm Malaysian hospitality.”

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Hong Kong to allow international traveller

Hong Kong to allow international travellers for first time since 2020

Hong Kong to allow international traveller

Hong Kong to allow international travellers for first time since 2020

Hong Kong will allow non-residents to enter the financial hub from May for the first time in more than two years, a small step in unwinding stringent coronavirus restrictions which have turned the city into one of the world’s most isolated places.

Hong Kong to allow international traveller

Hong Kong’s rules for airlines that carry infected COVID-19 patients will also be eased slightly, the government said in a statement on Friday (Apr 22), with the threshold for suspending incoming flights rising to five infected passengers from three currently. A ban on individual airline routes will be shortened to five days from seven.

Foreign travellers will be subjected to the same procedure as residents, the government said. The announcement comes with daily infections less than 1000 for more than a week from a peak of more than 70,000 on March 3.

Kindly note the information is to serve as reference only. It is especially important to check in regularly on www.tatnews.org to stay current on what remains a very fluid and fast changing situation.

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Switzerland entry restrictions

Switzerland entry restrictions lifted for all travellers

Switzerland entry restrictions

Switzerland entry restrictions lifted for travellers 

Travellers from all countries will soon be able to enter Switzerland without having to follow any COVID-19 rules as the latter will drop all of its measures on May 2. Starting from May 2, all travellers, regardless of their country of origin, will be permitted restriction-free entry to Switzerland.

Switzerland entry restrictions

“The entry restrictions currently in place will be lifted from May 2. As of that date, the usual rules for entering Switzerland will apply,” the statement of the State Secretariat for Migration said. Currently, all travellers are required to hold a valid vaccination or recovery certificate in order to be permitted restriction-free entry to Switzerland.

However, as soon as the new entry rules start applying, travellers will no longer be required to hold a valid vaccination or recovery certificate. The Swiss authorities have explained that from May 2, travellers will only be required to follow the other rules, such as holding a valid passport or visa, if such a requirement applies to them.

Kindly note the information is to serve as reference only. It is especially important to check in regularly on www.tatnews.org to stay current on what remains a very fluid and fast changing situation.

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Thailand lifts RT-PCR testing requirement for international arrivals from 1 May 2022

Thailand lifts RT-PCR testing requirement

Thailand lifts RT-PCR testing

April 25, 2022, Thailand lifts RT-PCR testing requirement for international arrivals from 1 May 2022

Travellers will be allowed to enter the kingdom without the pre-arrival nor arrival tests.

Thailand’s Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) today approved the lifting of the RT-PCR testing requirement for international arrivals beginning 1 May, 2022, and introduced two new entry schemes specifically customised for vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers.

TAT Newsroom will be providing updates in detail via www.tatnews.org once the official directives have been announced in the Royal Thai Government Gazette.

Thailand lifts RT-PCR testing requirement

New entry rules for vaccinated travellers:

International travellers who are fully vaccinated will no longer be required to show proof of a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR test nor undergo an arrival test.

They are still required to register for a Thailand Pass (via https://tp.consular.go.th/) with a Certificate of COVID-19 Vaccination and an insurance policy with coverage no less than US$10,000 (reduced from US$20,000).

Once arriving in Thailand, they will be allowed entry and are free to go anywhere  in the kingdom.

New entry rules for unvaccinated travellers:

International travellers who are unvaccinated or are not fully vaccinated will also no longer be required to show proof of a pre-arrival negative RT-PCR test nor undergo an arrival test.

They are required to register for a Thailand Pass with a 5-day hotel booking and an insurance policy with coverage no less than US$10,000 (reduced from US$20,000).

Once arriving in Thailand, they must proceed to undergo the quarantine for 5 days and undergo an RT-PCR test on Day 5.

Exception is made for unvaccinated travellers who are able to upload proof of a negative RT-PCR test within 72 hours of travel via the Thailand Pass system, they – like those fully vaccinated – will be allowed entry and are free to go anywhere in the kingdom.

While in Thailand, both vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers are advised to strictly follow health and safety standards. Travellers who are experiencing COVID-like symptoms should get tested. If testing positive, they must get the appropriate medical treatment.

Kindly note the information is to serve as reference only. It is especially important to check in regularly on www.tatnews.org to stay current on what remains a very fluid and fast changing situation.

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