After over a year at home, we’re all itching to get on the road and explore somewhere new. But the question on everyone’s mind is if we can travel again this summer. The bad news is that non-essential international travel is still on pause, but the good news is that we are getting closer.
We’ve seen border crossing rules eased in recent weeks, the promise of relaxed quarantine rules for Canadians who are fully vaccinated, and airlines begin to reinstitute flights to destinations near and far. It’s all good news for Canadians who have now gone more than a year without the ability to travel freely and who are likely itching to get out there. Recent estimates predict that leisure travel will get back to 2019 levels faster than originally anticipated, which could be as early as 2022!
Currently, Canadians are still being asked to avoid non-essential travel, but the good news is that quarantine requirements are relaxing. “When we can travel, start your adventures closer to home,” recommends travel journalist Heather Greenwood Davis, “our own tourism industries have been devastated by the pandemic and so a quick flight or drive to one of our cities when it permitted could do wonders for our economy.”
The fluctuating costs associated with travel are another aspect of your vacation to consider. Many destinations are requiring additional COVID testing for entry, which is an out-of-pocket expense you may not have budgeted for before. Greenwood Davis suggests looking at how you can earn and redeem your loyalty points for your next vacation. Until August 3, new American Express Cardmembers can earn up to 150,000 bonus points toward their next adventure with the highest offers ever on seven of its top travel Cards. The welcome bonuses are coupled with boosted rewards on everyday spend categories like food and drinks. That means that Canadians can spend at home, knowing that they’re also helping themselves getaway sooner with every swipe and tap,” shares Greenwood Davis.
Still thinking about where to go? Top on Greenwood Davis’ list are the Malahat Skywalk on Vancouver Island, Ballet by the Ocean in New Brunswick and, when it’s safes, she’s dreaming of an international escape to Switzerland.
