In travel news for May 11, 2022 we have COVID entry restriction updates from New Zealand, we talk about the near parity between the dollar and euro, and we have an update on mask mandates for E.U. Air Travel.
New Zealand Entry Restrictions
New Zealand was closed to travelers for most of the pandemic, during that time their closing was one of the strictest in the world. That all changes on May 2nd when they started allowing fully vaccinated travelers from select countries, such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. More changes have recently been announced. At the end of July, New Zealand aims to fully reopen their boarders. Also at the end of July the country hopes to drop the pre-departure testing requirement. Currently travelers will need to provide proof of vaccination, and either a negative PCR test taken within 48 hours, or a supervised rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure. Travelers will also be required to take a rapid antigen test when they arrive, and again on day 5 of their trip.
U.S. Dollar vs. Euro
For the first time in nearly 20 years the U.S. Dollar is approaching parity with the Euro, which Is great news for those traveling to Eurpoe this summer. At the time of this filming the exchange rate is $1.05 to 1 euro. This gives Americans greater buying power while traveling throughout Europe. And as an added benefit when two currencies get this close there really isn’t a need do currency conversions in your head to figure out cost in dollars as opposed to euros.
European Union Mask Mandate for Air Travel
The European Union has announced that they would be lifting mask mandates for airports and airplanes starting May 16. There is still a possibility passengers might have to wear a mask, the EU is allowing airlines to decide if or when a mask mandate is necessary. And there is also the possibilities of a destination requirement, where a country mandates that masks be worn for Air Travel. Under a destination requirement flights to or from the destination would require all passengers and crew to wear a mask for the duration of the flight.