In Travel News for April 6th, 2023 we talk about Japan’s updated pandemic policies, Hawaii’s new visitor fee, and Regent Seven Seas’s Epicurean Perfection in Alaska.
Immerse Yourself in Alaska's Culinary Treasures Aboard the Seven Seas Explorer
Regent Seven Seas Cruises presents the Epicurean Perfection program for the Seven Seas Explorer's premiere Alaska season. The program offers travelers three unique Epicurean Explorer Tours and three Culinary Arts Kitchen classes. The tours feature experiences like sustainable oyster and kelp farms, a catamaran journey to a salmon hatchery, and local cuisine and craft beer tasting events. The Culinary Arts Kitchen classes cover recipes inspired by Vancouver and Seattle, sustainable seafood choices, and a special class for young travelers. The Seven Seas Explorer will embark on 15 luxurious seven-night sailings between Seward, Alaska, and Vancouver, British Columbia from June to September. Regent is offering promotions for children and discounts on selected sailings for new reservations made by April 29 and May 31, 2023. The program aims to satisfy guests' curiosity about sustainable fishing, aquaculture, and culinary traditions in Alaska.
Hawaii
Hawaii is considering a new law requiring tourists aged 15 and older to purchase a yearlong pass to visit the state's parks, trails, and other natural attractions on state land. The move aims to offset the environmental impact of tourism and support conservation efforts. The Proposal is inspired by similar models in Venice, Italy, and Ecuador's Galapagos Islands. The bill, which has passed through the Senate and is now before the state Congress, would exempt Hawaii residents with proper identification from the requirement. After a five-year transition period, tourists without the license would face civil fines. The funds generated from this initiative would be used to maintain and preserve Hawaii's unique natural environment, repair damaged coral reefs, protect native forest trees, and patrol waters to prevent harassment of wildlife.
Exciting News for Travelers: Japan Eases COVID-19 Entry Restrictions
Japan is set to fully relax its COVID-19 entry restrictions starting May 8, 2023, making travel to the country more accessible. Visitors entering Japan will no longer need to present valid vaccination certificates or pre-departure inspection certificates. However, quarantine measures may still be implemented if new infectious disease outbreaks occur overseas. Travelers must submit information to Japanese authorities through the Visit Japan website before flying. Japan has also lifted its requirement for travelers arriving from China to provide a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours prior to departure. The removal of border measures marks a significant shift toward the end of the challenging period for travelers. With relaxed restrictions, travelers can now explore Japan's beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and incredible cuisine, signaling a return to a more familiar travel experience.