Tips For Traveling to Europe
Planning to travel to Europe? Here are some important tips to consider. First of all, make sure you’re properly vaccinated against influenza. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention change their guidelines on travel to Europe frequently. In late July, Iceland was considered a low-risk area to visit. But by August, it was upgraded to the highest risk level. It’s now recommended that travelers avoid Iceland. And be sure to bring all your vaccination records with you on your trip.
Secondly, choose a time of year to travel to Europe. The majority of Americans plan to visit the Swiss Alps during the winter season or the Greek islands during the summer. While it may seem tempting, crowded destinations are no fun. Consider traveling during the off-season to avoid crowds at popular European sites and enjoy cheaper accommodations, train tickets, and tours. Budget Airlines are a good choice if you are traveling for short distances. However, keep in mind that they may have less services, so be aware of any potential issues or costs before booking.
Despite the travel warnings, the EU has made it easier for Americans to visit European countries. The EU has now removed the U.S. from its safe travel list and advised member states to restrict non-essential travel from the United States. While this is concerning, European nations have the right to make their own rules regarding tourists. And, despite the recent outbreak, many European countries still welcome Americans who are fully vaccinated. So, if you’re planning to travel to Europe, make sure to get all of the necessary vaccinations before booking.
Lastly, be cautious about accepting “consolation prizes” from strangers. Be wary of situations that appear bizarre at home, but are common in Europe. The best way to make friends is to meet locals in conventional places and participate in organized events. By planning ahead, you’ll ensure that you’ll have access to the most popular attractions. You can also find discounts and other benefits by signing up for TravelPulse, a free daily travel newsletter.
Taking precautions is important, regardless of the purpose of your trip. For instance, you must obtain an EU-approved vaccine against influenza. BioNTech, Pfizer, Moderna, and Janssen are all examples of EU-approved vaccines. Also, you should check the visa requirements in your destination country. The EU also has specific guidelines for travel by non-EU citizens. Vaccines are still essential for those who travel to Europe. Vaccinations are required for those who plan to work, study, or practice their profession in the region.
If you’re not a citizen of a Schengen-zone country, you may have trouble getting a visa to visit the country. If you have a valid passport, you can get an ETIAS, which is not a visa but an authorization to travel within the Schengen area. The ETIAS is valid for three years, so you won’t have to apply for it again. If you plan to visit more than once, it’s best to apply for a Schengen travel authorization.
Besides a Schengen visa, you also need to prepare for security issues. The EU has introduced new immigration laws aimed at reducing health and security threats within the bloc. The new regulations will require Americans who are aged 18 to 70 to pay EUR7 for their travel permits. For those under the age of 18, it’s free. However, there is no clear start date for the new immigration rules. So, make sure to check with the relevant authorities before making any plans.
As long as you have adequate insurance, it’s a good idea to take a travel insurance policy for Europe. There are many options for this, from Europ Assistance to AXA Assistance. Select the type of coverage you need – either Extended Europe or Standard Europe. Choose your coverage area, pay online, and you’ll receive your certificate via email. The cost of travel insurance in Europe varies depending on the country. So, be prepared for the unexpected.
US citizens can visit 26 countries in the European Schengen area without a visa. However, they must ensure that their passports are at least 10 years old and valid for at least three months beyond their expected date of departure. In addition, they must show proof of sufficient financial means to support their trip. The US government will also require that they present their passport when they enter the Schengen area. It may be wise to apply for an individual Schengen visa before they leave for their trip to Europe.