Traveling internationally has changed substantially over the past year, and it has caused even the most seasoned of travelers to ask the question: is it worth it? One of the biggest changes to occur went into effect on January 26, 2021 with the CDC requirement that all air passengers arriving to the US from a foreign country produce a negative COVID-19 test. I recently traveled to Turks and Caicos, which allowed me the opportunity to go through this protocol first hand.
One thing that put my mind at ease when going through the process was reading and talking to others about their experience. While no two experiences are exactly the same, I truly believe that nothing is better than first-hand knowledge. By having an understanding of what to expect from before travel even began, I was able to focus my energy on the fact that I was going to TURKS and CAICOS. You know, make those big decisions on the level of SPF to pack and how many outfits I really need for a 3 night trip! My hope is that you have a better understanding of the current experience by me taking you through my journey.
My experience/tips for the reentry process:
You will want to check the CDC website for the most up to date protocols.- I also suggest you print the required attestation. (the resort I stayed at did provide this.)
- You will want to check the procedures for testing at your resort prior to arrival. (I look for resorts that offer free testing and if required, quarantine on the premises.)
- Upon check in, you will want to find out your testing date, time and location. (within 3 days of departure.)
- When you arrive for your test, be sure to have your passport with you. (I may have had to walk back to my suite.)
- You will proceed to the testing location and take an Antigen test (nasal swab).
- You will then receive your results. (I called and had my negative result in 15 minutes.)
- Review your result to make sure all of your information is accurate. (passport number and date of birth.)
- The front desk will provide you with a printed copy for you to show at the airport.
- You will need to have your passport, negative COVID-19 test, and attestation form ready when you arrive for check in at the airport
My experience with the new protocol was seamless, and it took a total of 20 minutes out of my entire trip. The biggest pain point I noticed was for the people that did not have the attestation form filled out prior to arriving at the airport. Due to this, the lines were going slow for check in so I certainly recommend arriving early to the airport. After checking in for my flight in Turks and Caicos, I was never required to show my negative test results again.
A big part of why this process seemed seamless to me was because I knew what to expect. I had confidence in the procedures of the resort I was staying at, and knew the protocols if I did test positive. I did the research and asked the questions I needed to to feel secure in my decision to travel internationally. Traveling internationally was totally worth it to me!
When you are ready, I would love to help you plan your next adventure. I stay up to date on the protocols for not only reentering the US, but also for your destination of choice. To get started, simply email me, Stacie Whalen, at stacie@teplanners.com.