In Travel News for January 9th, 2023 we talk about China’s reopening, a big year for American Cruise Lines, and a Visitor Tax for some popular destinations.
China Reopens to Travelers
Yesterday. China officially reopened for travel, this includes people wishing to travel to china as well as Chinese citizens looking to travel internationally. Travelers will need to obtain a visitors visa, provide proof of full vaccination, as well as a negative COVID test taken within 48 hours of their flight. Travelers will also be required to fill out a Health Declaration Form online at least 24 hours before arrival. The quarantine requirement has been dropped however all travelers will be expected to wear a mask in any public setting. As we’ve seen over the last few months these rules can change quickly and China does have a history of rapid lockdowns as recently as a few months ago. Returning to the United States or Canada will also require a negative covid test.
American Cruise Lines Big 2023
American Cruise Lines, which largely cruises the rivers of, well, America; plans on expanding their fleet this year. 2023 will see three new ships enter service, as well as 10 new itineraries which will visit ports the company has never visited before. Of the new ships the American Serenade will debut on the Mississippi this April. Two new coastal ships, the American Glory and American Eagle will make their debut later year as well and will sail the east cost of the U.S. Of the new itineraries the company will debut their first cruise in California with an eight day round trip cruise out of San Francisco that will highlight Napa Valley’s wine county.
New or Expanded Visitor Taxes for 2023
During 2022 travel numbers largely return to pre-pandemic levels. The strong demand for travel has left many popular destinations concerned about over tourism. One of the main tools to combat this problem is what’s called a “tourist tax”. Tourist taxes can take many forms such as extra taxes on hotel rooms or air fare. Many countries already have some kind of tourist tax in place, here are a few countries that are either adding or expanding the tax for 2023:
- Barcelona, Spain will be increasing their tax on hotels and other tourist accommodations to €2.75 starting in April.
- Thailand will be introducing a fee of 300 Baht, or approximately $9.00 dollars U.S, over the summer.
- The European Union will be introducing a €7 fee for non-E.U. citizens this November.
- Valencia, Spain will introduce a tax on hotels, hostels, apartments, and campsites of between €0.50 to €2 depending on the accommodation at the end of this year.