How to Travel to Europe Safely
You’ve finally decided to take that trip to Europe! But you’re not sure how to travel there safely. What do you need to know before heading off to this beautiful part of the world? Read on to find out how to travel safely to Europe. CDC Travel Advisories
When traveling in Europe, bring a waterproof bag. You’ll need it for traveling to different cities. And don’t forget to bring an umbrella. Umbrellas are essential for Southern Europe! Keeping one in your backpack will keep you dry and protected from the sun. Also, don’t forget to buy some souvenirs while you’re in Europe. You’ll be glad you bought one! But how do you find one?
While the continent has relatively safe tap water, there is the risk of cholera and other illnesses. Although there are many health-related issues that travelers can face while in Europe, you should be prepared to pay for a hospital visit. The costs of such an emergency will depend on the country, the hospital you choose, and the type of problem you have. Aside from that, there’s the possibility of being scammed, so make sure you check with your doctor first before booking any trips.
In 2023, US citizens and nationals of over 60 other countries will need to obtain electronic travel authorization to enter the Schengen area. To do this, travelers will have to register with the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in the U.S., and the ETIAS will be valid for unlimited visits within three years. However, it will still require a visa for U.S. citizens, which can take several months.
Some countries in the European Union (EU) have begun requiring travelers to have a test for the coronavirus, or COVID. This is a highly contagious virus, and you must ensure that you don’t carry the virus. Luckily, some countries don’t require you to get a test prior to your trip. But some countries have begun requiring this in the wake of the recent pandemic.
The Schengen area, a border-free zone where internal borders have been eliminated, is now a visa-free zone for U.S. citizens. The visa-free travel permits U.S. citizens to visit any of the 28 member states of the E.U., as long as they’ve been fully vaccinated and recovered from their COVID-19 infection. So, if you’re thinking about going to the Schengen area, be sure to follow the advice of the country’s health department.
If you’re an American citizen, you can apply for a Schengen visa for entry into the Schengen area, but you should submit your application at least 15 days prior to your intended date of entry. This will allow the authorities sufficient time to process your application. Additionally, you can sign up for the ETIAS system to allow European customs and immigration authorities to prescreen foreign travelers. By registering with ETIAS, travelers can improve the security measures throughout the Schengen Area.
Getting a visa for Europe can be a confusing process, but it is important to keep in mind that US citizens can travel to the 26 countries in the Schengen area without a visa. Those who live in other countries, like the U.S., can still apply for a Schengen visa for Europe without an EU passport. The application process is much easier than it used to be, and many Americans are now just as interested in traveling to Europe as Europeans.
In the Netherlands, the country has declared the U.S. a “high-risk” travel area. To enter the country, travelers must have the necessary vaccinations and antigens. If you are vaccinated for hepatitis A or hepatitis B, you won’t need to undergo quarantine, but you will still have to complete a COVID-19 test within three days before you board your flight to enter the country.
France requires travelers to provide proof of their COVID-19 vaccination. This test must be negative and have a date of seven months since the last vaccination. If you’re not vaccinated, you can get a temporary vaccination certificate from your doctor – though you’ll probably be asked to fill out a passenger locator form for it, which you’ll need to show at customs before you leave the U.S.
In Italy, the requirements for a visa are standardized. You’ll need to have one of three certificates on hand to enter the country. If you don’t have these, you’ll have to self-isolate for five days or get tested. You’ll also have to fill out a passenger locator form. Once you’re there, be sure to pack a travel bag and a passport. These steps are necessary before you can enjoy your trip to Europe.