Everyone is wondering what the Europe travel outlook in 2021 will look like. With the current coronavirus pandemic, travelling has become more challenging than ever. Despite positive news about the vaccines progression, there have been new variants that could bring surges, so many countries have taken new restrictive policies for both regular citizens and tourists. Check out below what tourists should expect ahead of their trip to Europe this year.
First of all, there is unfortunately much uncertainty regarding the vaccine delivery schedules. Each country will be having its own schedule and timeline, but some are expected to progress better than others. So, if possible, keep up to date with the latest news of the countries you are planning to visit. Even though you are fully vaccinated before your trip, there are no guarantees that your destination country will have fully lifted their lockdowns and other coronavirus restrictions.
On the other hand, as more and more vaccines get approved, the overall manufacturing capacity will increase, and consequently a higher number of people will be vaccinated. Some analysts see August and September as more viable timelines to plan your vacation in Europe.
Before you proceed with purchasing any travel tickets and booking hotels, you should carefully read all cancellation policies and deposit requirements, and always make sure you purchase pandemic-specific travel insurance. Remember that during these times, documents and other public services might get their processes and applications delayed, so try to get everything sorted as soon as you are able to.
Stay away from discounted rates that are either prepaid or have a “no cancel” policy. Usually, booking hotel rooms from reputable chains is safer than renting an apartment or cottage. Even though, some of the big platforms, such as AirBnB are loosening some of their rules during the pandemic.
Keep in mind that if you are coming from the United States or any other visa-waivered country to Europe, recently the European Union has created a pre-travel screening process for visa-free access to Europe. Since January 1st, Americans need to complete an online registration process ahead of their visit, and this new process, known as the known as the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), will be required before you board your plane or cruise ship with an EU destination.
But don’t be scared, this is a very simple screening process, and should be valid for three years once you complete it. You will have to answer a series of biometric, travel and security-related questions during the four days of the online application. After you are approved, you will be notified via email.
Not every European destination will require an ETIAS pass to visit. However, if you are planning to go to the most popular destinations, such as Germany, France, Italy or Spain, then it will be mandatory. In fact, 22 out of the 27 EU countries are currently enforcing this new screening process.
Please note that in order to proceed with the ETIAS application you need to have a valid passport and a credit or debit card that will be registered to it, with an additional $8 fee. And if your application is denied for any reason whatsoever, you are able to appeal it. There you have it, the Europe travel outlook for 2021, would you add anymore current information?
