The Future of International Travel: Recovery and Beyond

Apr 01, 2021 | Aon

Historically, traveling to another country required little more than a plan and a passport. Today, things are a bit more complicated – but there are many travelers who are eagerly looking forward to visiting their favorite international destinations as soon as possible. In addition, the availability of multiple COVID-19 vaccines is only fueling that fire further. Whether you have already booked something or are getting ready to select your destination, keep these regulations, restrictions and requirements in mind:

Travel companies have adapted: The reality is that while precautions and regulations are going to be in place for some time, the pandemic has cultivated innovation and advancements that will enhance the travel journey. From touchless technology to biometrics, companies are stopping at nothing to ensure their customers are safe and, above all, happy. A great example of this is how cruise lines are working closely with national authorities across the world and have committed to stringent new procedures and requirements to best ensure guest safety. Another example includes the world’s favorite tourist spots and how they’ve adapted, using strategies like social distancing, selling fewer tickets or requiring reservations for free attractions. Every type of travel, venue and destination is different, so do your research.

COVID-19 tests will be faster and more readily available: You’ll have to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test – and possibly take another test at your destination – to enjoy international travel. Additionally, you will have to do the same when you return to the United States. The CDC previously announced an order requiring travelers entering the United States to present a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival – taken no more than three days before departure. Because of this development, hotels and resorts are beginning to offer COVID-19 testing on-site to assist their guests with a safe return home. For example, The Curtain Bluff, a resort located in the Caribbean island of Antigua, has amped up their accommodations to guests by providing an on-site doctor to conduct rapid testing. Companies of all sorts, both domestic and international, are working to find the best solutions to address travelers’ concerns and safety first and foremost.

Travel insurance is becoming more of a necessity and evolving to address travelers’ new concerns: In the midst of COVID-19, some countries are taking precautions one step further by requiring travelers to carry travel insurance. Examples include Anguilla, Aruba, Brazil, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Lebanon, St. Martin, Thailand, The Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and Ukraine. This list is subject to change, so be sure to check your destination’s latest requirements when you’re planning your trip. Of course, even if you are traveling to a different location, considering travel insurance for your trip can be a prudent move.

COVID-19 will serve as an unexpected catalyst: Above all, the pandemic has surprised us by serving as an unexpected catalyst, launching our world into a more conscious way of traveling – and living. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) says that consumers are shifting their preferences toward the familiar and predictable, adopting better health and hygiene standards, accepting and utilizing innovation and digitization, and placing an emphasis on sustainability – from heightened public awareness of social, environmental and institutional sustainability. Given these new interests, the WTTC states that travel businesses will not only need to implement such protocols, but will also need to communicate with travelers in a “clear and simple way, providing them with easily accessible, digestible, accurate, and timely information and facts.” With 55% of American travelers saying reassurance would be the biggest factor in persuading them to book a future trip, it’s paramount that travel companies are making communication the key.

So what’s the Aon Travel Takeaway? “The state of international travel will continue to evolve throughout 2021,” said Beth Godlin, president of the Aon Affinity Travel Practice. “As consumers plan their getaways, ongoing research will be key to ensure they’re in compliance with evolving requirements and ready to enjoy their getaway from the moment they depart. At the end of the day, we’re looking at the positives and have been actively working with our partners to safely welcome travelers back.”

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