On January 12, 2021: the CDC posted a new air travel requirement: “Negative COVID-19 Test Requirement to All Air Passengers Entering the United States“, effective January 26, 2021.
Two weeks notice – Argh! 🤯
In response, I immediately sent an email to all of my clients who had scheduled vacations this year and those who were considering booking a vacation with me.
I then posted the image below on all of my social media channels.
This notice garnered my clients’ attention as some had not read their evening emails yet but most were active on Facebook and Instagram.
Meanwhile, and despite the confusion, more Mexico and Caribbean island tourism boards and resorts sent notices of their facilities’ availability for on-site testing, at a cost of course. You see, Canada had basically declared this same requirement two-weeks earlier so most of the governments were already setting things up. However, when the USA jumped into the fray, the processes and procedures went to warp speed. The list is getting longer by the hour.
Delta and American Airlines immediately offered a travel waiver for any passengers that wanted to re-book: meaning that any fare differences would be waived for a certain period of time.
Nonetheless, I spent the remainder of the evening canceling two clients’ trips; they were both long weekends to Mexico and St. Lucia: “too much hassle” both said, even though both were staying at/near approved testing sites.
This is what a Real Live Travel Agent does! We take care of YOU, our clients, no matter what time it is. Day or night.
On January 13, 2021: I did a brief Facebook Live segment and also posted the subsequent video on all of my social media channels.
Even more family, friends, and followers commented their thanks for the information.
On January 14, 2021: the CDC tightened the language regarding the type of test required.
In addition, they added a FAQ page so that you know you need either a NAAT or Antigen test.
The FDA has an awesome and easy to read explanation of the different types of coronavirus tests.
My clients always know where to look for excellent travel advice and support: SelfishMe Travel.
Even people who did not book with me have asked for help since Booking, Travelocity, and Priceline gave them no information at all. I would never leave anyone stranded so I helped them willingly. Yet another reason why you should always use a Travel Advisor for all your travel plans.
