In travel news for May 3, 2022 we talk about the REAL ID deadline, Oktoberfest, and a COVID update from Greece.
REAL ID Deadline
Travelers now have 1 year to update their State ID to a REAL ID compliant equivalent. Starting May 3, 2023 travelers will need a REAL ID to board a domestic flight or access federal facilities. The REAL ID act was passed by congress in 2005 based on recommendations from the 9/11 commission. Basically the act established a set of minimum security standards for state issued identification. Currently all 50 states, the district of columbia, and 4 of the 5 U.S. territories issue REAL ID compliant Drivers Licenses and ID’s. In the event you don’t have a REAL ID after May 3, 2023, your passport or passport card can be used in it’s place.
Oktoberfest Returns to Munich, Germany
Oktoberfest is officially returning to Munich, Germany this fall. Oktoberfest was postponed the last few years because of the COVID pandemic. This will be the 187th Oktoberfest and will take place from September 17 to October 3rd. The first Oktoberfest was in held in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of the Crown Prince of Bavaria. It has been canceled for various reasons over the last 200 years but always returns. Travelers from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom will need to be fully vaccinated to enter Germany as well as provide proof of a negative COVID test if arriving by plane. For more information about traveling to Germany watch our video "What You Need to Know to Travel to Germany".
Greece Removes Entry Restrictions
Over the weekend Greece has removed COVID entry restrictions. Travelers entering Greece will no longer need to provide proof of vaccination, proof of recovery, or proof of a negative COVID test to gain entry. Additionally Greece has also removed the requirement to show proof of vaccination to enter indoor and some outdoor spaces. Greece is still requiring masks for Air Travel.