Canadians are excited to be travelling again. Here are five questions that come up often when contacting a travel agent.
Do we have the right to travel?
Canadians have the right to leave Canada and return to the country, but foreigners do not have the right to enter Canada unless they meet certain very specific criteria, says Patrick Giguère, director of Voyages Constellation. Obviously, not all countries will accept Canadian travellers.
Where are we allowed to travel?
Things are constantly changing yesterday’s answer is not necessarily today’s answer. When booking and during the lead up to travel departure it is important to follow and note the latest travel changes and advice. Generally, Canadians can go to Mexico, Cuba, Jamaica, and other islands. Europe was accessible last summer and early fall, but with the second wave, this is no longer necessarily the case, unless you have a passport from the European community. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) website is the best place to check up to date information regarding travel restrictions and entry requirements in various countries.
Can we find travel insurance to cover ourselves in the event of COVID-19?
Such assurances have begun to appear. Patrick Giguère indicates that Blue Cross was one of the first companies to offer travel insurance that covers COVID-19. The director of Voyages Constellation notes, however, that just because a person has insurance does not necessarily mean that they will have room in a hospital for treatment. “These are things that can happen abroad as they can happen here. Hospitals can be overwhelmed and must choose between patient A and patient B.”
What happens with travel credits?
Like customers, travel agencies are waiting. Many airlines and wholesalers are still unwilling to offer refunds for cancelled flights and trips. Government aid to airlines could, however, be conditional on such refunds. “We are still waiting for news,” says Patrick Giguère. Previously travel credits often had an early deadline however as the pandemic evolved, airlines and wholesalers extended deadlines. For some, we are talking about two years and even unlimited duration.