THE tourism industry is getting back in business after the pandemic. To make sure your next trip goes smoothly, we decided to run down some of the administrative hoops you'll need to jump through in order to avoid a vacation nightmare. Because there's more to travel than complying with COVID-19 vaccination requirements and taking mandatory PCR or antigen tests.
Passport
While border restrictions are gradually being lifted, this is no time to forget the travel admin basics that existed long before the pandemic, starting with your passport. While having one is essential, checking its validity is another travel must that's sometimes overlooked.
Not only do you have to be sure that your passport is still valid after spending so many months grounded, but you also have to check that it will still be valid when you return, especially if you're traveling to certain countries.
Australia, Egypt and the Maldives, for example, require passports be valid for six months after your return date, to avoid the document expiring during your trip.
Insurance
Insurance is an expense that you might have liked to skip in order to boost your vacation spending money. But, in light of the pandemic, more and more countries require travelers to have medical coverage in case they run into a problem.
Only a few destinations, such as Algeria or China, used to require this kind of measure in pre-pandemic days.
Now, many countries are following this example, like Mauritius, Argentina or Singapore. However, grabbing yourself any old insurance isn't enough. It's important to check the conditions of coverage required by each destination.
For example, the Philippines requires insurance including coverage for covid-19 with a minimum amount of $35,000. For Thailand, medical coverage must be at least $50,000.
The Jordanian authorities require a certificate of international health insurance written in English. In the Sultanate of Oman, meanwhile, travelers will need proof of travel insurance covering at least 30 days of covid-19 treatment.
To be sure you've got things right, it's best to check the full details of any entry requirements on the official government or embassy website for your planned destination.
Credit card (for car rental)
If you're planning to rent a car abroad -- including in Europe -- it's best to check the type of bank card required by the car rental company. In fact, many require a "credit" card rather than a mere "debit" card.
Getting it wrong could see you refused the keys to your rental car, or having to pay extra. Look at your payment card and check if it says "credit" or "debit," or check with your bank.
And while we're on the subject of driving, you'll need to check whether your driver's license is valid in the country you're visiting. Remember that, if you're visiting the United States, regulations can differ in each state.
Mandatory or recommended vaccinations (other than COVID-19)
The shockwaves caused by COVID-19 shouldn't make travelers forget that some countries require vaccination against specific diseases. And that was the case well before the pandemic.
Some countries, especially in Africa, require the presentation of an international certificate of vaccination against yellow fever, even if you're only transiting through an airport. This is the case in Benin, for example. Other vaccines can be strongly recommended for travel.
For example, it's usually recommended to get vaccinated for hepatitis B and/or Japanese encephalitis before heading to Thailand.
Again, this kind of information should be available on the relevant government or embassy websites. In any case, it's strongly advised to make sure all your regular vaccinations are up-to-date before packing your bags.
ETX Studio
Fri Feb 18 2022
A OVID-19 vaccination certificate isn't the only administrative document that needs to be up to date with before your travel. - ETX Studio
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.
NFOF will be operational in November 2024 with funding of RM1 bil
PM Anwar Ibrahim said NFOF will support venture capital fund managers to invest in startup companies with RM300 million set aside for 2025.