Coronavirus-related news continues to make headlines around the world. From the opening of Expo 2020 in Dubai to India’s latest travel updates, here are some of the major travel news highlights last week.
Extravagant opening gala marks the start of Expo 2020 Dubai
After a year-long delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the opening ceremony of the eagerly-anticipated Expo 2020 Dubai took place on Thursday, 30 September, officially marking the start of the world fair.
Tickets are now on sale through the event’s online and offline channels, as well as from authorized ticket sellers. Free tickets are also available subject to certain terms and conditions.
Bulgaria and Norway added to US Do Not Travel list
While no further details concerning the US’ plans to lift its travel ban from 33 countries have surfaced, the CDC has recently added Bulgaria and Norway to its Do Not Travel list; which is the highest advisory level adopted by the CDC indicating a greater likelihood of life-threatening risks.
The US Department of State issues four different travel advisories, depending on the level of risk that a country presents for a traveller. Aside from Level 4, “Do Not Travel,” and Level 3, “Reconsider Travel,” there are also Level 2, “Exercise Increased Caution,” and Level 1, “Exercise Normal Precautions.”
Japan loosens entry restrictions for fully vaccinated visitors
Japan's Ministry of Health has agreed to loosen entry restrictions for visitors who can provide evidence of being fully vaccinated against the coronavirus.
However, potential visitors would need to keep in mind Japan’s list of recognized vaccines which includes Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca vaccines. Those who have been inoculated with China’s Sinopharm or the US’ Johnson & Johnson will not be able to enter Japan.
India imposes a 10-day quarantine on UK nationals
India has imposed mandatory quarantine for all UK nationals arriving in the country, even if they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The Indian government said the change brought "reciprocity" to its rules following the UK’s earlier announcement regarding its vaccination requirements and restrictions which have been described by a number of countries worldwide as “discriminatory.”
It has been reported that under the new rules, UK-bound travellers who have taken one of the vaccines approved in the UK will only be recognized as fully vaccinated only if they have done so in the US, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea or an EU country. Those meeting the requirements will be exempt from quarantine requirements upon arrival in England from an amber list country.
