What is a Digital Health Passport?

You might have seen this term start to be gaining interest. As with many concepts this one was born of necessity from the Pandemic.  Needing vaccines for travel in many areas of the world has been in place for many years. The proof of that has been on paper for most of that time. But now it is a digital world. With a worldwide pandemic, proof of vaccination and testing has become more important as it has not just affected a few countries but the whole globe. From what I have read and seen, Testing and Vaccination will be the only way for us to travel internationally again.

A digital health passport is a mobile app, or online certification, that displays a traveler’s Covid-19 test result and/or vaccination record. It is designed to convey to airline or border control personnel that someone is at a low risk of acquiring or transmitting the virus. They are designed to be a reliable way of checking who is eligible to enter a country, depending on that country’s recognition of the type of digital passport, and type of test and/or vaccination. They may also be useful when it comes to “return quarantine rules” for travelers coming back home.

Some airlines and airports offer testing facilities, but digital health passports are the likely next step, and are designed to be more universally accepted.

Who is creating these Passports?

Some of the currently offered digital health passports to emerge include:

  • ICC AOKpass - from the International Chamber of Commerce

  • CoronaPass - from automated processing company Bizagi

  • CommonPass - from The Commons Project Foundation

  • IATA Travel Pass- from the International Air Transport Association

  • iProov-Mvine passport from iProov user authentification company

  • The Covid Credentials Initiative (CCI) - with Linux Foundation Public Health

  • VeriFLY - from user authentification company Daon

  • V-Health Passport- an independant UK based company expect to start seeing collaborations of airlines and countries choosing different passport partners.

How do Digital Health Passports work?

The idea behind digital health passport is as follows:

1. A traveler downloads an app to their smartphone.

2. They either connect that app with their travel provider or upload their itinerary.

3. The app provides guidance for what verifications they need to travel.

4. The traveler is required to show that they have been tested at a certified testing center or have been vaccinated.

5. The app then supplies the traveler with a unique QR code, or other proof, verifying they are safe to fly.

The anticipation is that, over time, the systems will become more flexible and user friendly. It is important to know that you may need to have a unique mobile device for each traveler.

IATA claims that its TravelPass is an important step in the collaboration between governments and industry. IATA plans to offer airlines the option to integrate its TravelPass into their own app — allowing a traveler to bypass downloading a standalone app. This would allow for a single app download and be more practical for most travelers. The app is expected to be available in March of 2021. Other versions are scheduled to allow for group travelers and the addition of minors on one device.

Where are these Passports accepted?

Acceptance of digital health passports differs by product and destination. The consensus is that most countries will eventually recognize multiple platforms as acceptable digital health passports, in the same way they purchase different vaccines. One step towards national recognition could be the inclusion of domestic travel requirement. One should expect to use some form of Digital Health Passport in order to board an international (and possibly domestic) flight for your next vacation.

Airlines are testing a variety of these options.  United has tested CommonPass on flights between London and New York. At the same time, it is part of the airline advisory group for Travel Pass. The carrier has also integrated some aspects of a digital health passport into its own app following the CDC Covid testing requirements for all international arrivals in the U.S.

British Airways has tested CommonPass. Singapore Airlines is testing the IATA Travel Pass, with IAG, Emirates, Etihad Airways and Qatar Airways to follow. American Airlines has made the VeriFLY app available for travelers flying into the U.S., while from Feb. 4 British Airways will be the first airline in the UK to trial it for customers flying from London to the U.S.

 Reach out to the Airlines to find out which app they are accepting; 4 to 6 weeks before travel is the recommended practice. If someone does not have a digital device, I am sure there will be a paper option. It might take more time to check in or go through Customs. I am sure some accommodations will be made.

 

My thoughts

I do believe anyone who travels outside the US will need one of these. I heard news today that IATA will have their version out in just a few weeks. I am going to wait for that one because I believe more airlines and countries will accept it since it is being designed and implemented by an International Association that all the airlines belong to. They are an important part of the travel industry; also they are the only ones at this point setting it up so all of your family can be on one app. 

Many of our clients are opting for US travel in Hawaii, Alaska, cruising the American Waterways or a scenic Rail trip.  There are many options out there for an exciting trip right here in the good old USA.  In the Atlantic there is the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, which are US destinations that you do not need a passport for having.  There are many ways to have a grand adventure without going far.

Some good news this week that the UK is scheduled to open their Hotels and Restaurants in May. The hope is if all goes well, they may open for tourists later in the summer. There are also signs that travel in Europe may open this summer.  We Make Travel Easy is keeping up on all of the national openings and Covid procedures.  I would expect that testing and or proof of vaccination will be needed, for the foreseeable feature.  This is what all these companies are developing the digital passports for.

I have been booking US travel for clients as well as international travel late this year and 2022.  

Please let me know if I can help you travel safely and enjoyably.  

Written By Lois Wallace

Call Me - Let's Talk ! 775-671-0148
Prefer to Email? Lois@wemaketraveleasy.com

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America the Beautiful is waiting to be Rediscovered!

Unique travel close to home is waiting for you!

I am so excited that travel situation is improving! Although there are still restrictions in place. The situation is getting better around the world and there is progress on testing, and treatments are being fine-tuned. The travel industry in general is slowly ramping back up with new health protocols, from small boutique hotels to large cruise companies.  

Many may feel more comfortable traveling closer to home, the U.S offers many unique travel experiences. That is why I am thrilled to introduce you to a unique way to travel right here in our own back yard.!

Cruising American Waterways is one of the best kept secrets. Be the first of your friends and family to experience the fun and adventure it brings with it.  Whether you are looking for pure luxury, a change of scene or some adventure, you will find it on American Waterways Cruising.  These iconic waterways are full of history and folklore, with pleasant surprises for everyone, no matter their interest or travel style.

No passport required, no border control hassles or long customs lines to wait in.  A short flight or drive to a departure city and you are on your way to an extraordinary experience.  Nothing could be better! 

Your health and safety are of utmost concern. These companies have adopted comprehensive health care/sanitation protocols.  They are taking passenger safety seriously.  Since they are U.S. companies, they must follow CDC guidelines, and many have surpassed those guidelines.

My clients have had truly special and memorable experiences, on Rivers, Great Lakes and Coastal waters, right here in America. I believe this type of travel is perfect in these complicated times. Traveling in the US, on US ships, with all the comforts and security of being at home.

I want to introduce to you this style of travel, I know you will love. As an expert in U.S.  Waterways travel I have compiled a guide to inform you about American Waterways cruising, the experiences, ships, and Itineraries.  I hope you enjoy it.

Click on the button below to get my free guide to learn all about these wonderful trips!

Invite your friends and family to experience this with you.

Thanks,

Lois Wallace

Call Me - Let's Talk ! 415-931-1945
Prefer to Email? info@WeMakeTravelEasy.Com

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5 W’s and an H 🚗 🚉 ✈ 🚢

Who, what, when, where, why and how are the 6 basic questions used to arrive at answers for information gathering and problem solving. So why not use this tried and true way to look at the problem, that we all have, travel in the time of Covid-19. From your local weekend getaway to international travel, what’s the answer?

My first venture out - A day trip to Sonoma, CA for a socially distanced lunch on an outdoor patio. After Shelter in Place for 10 weeks it felt like a vacation!

My first venture out - A day trip to Sonoma, CA for a socially distanced lunch on an outdoor patio. After Shelter in Place for 10 weeks it felt like a vacation!

Disclosure: I am referring to vacation travel, not business or family emergency. I am not recommending anything. This is all informational. My goal is to educate, equip and empower you, to make the best decisions, for you and your loved ones. 

Who is going to travel?

Travelers, by nature, are adventurous souls. That said, everyone has a different tolerance for risk. There is no right or wrong, as long as you follow the CDC and other health organization guidelines. Ignoring them is totally irresponsible and puts lives at risk; yours and others.

Some people have had Covid -19, been tested and have antibodies. That person may feel more willing to travel. Someone with a compromised respiratory system, may not be willing to even venture outside their home. These are opposite ends of the continuum. In the middle are those that are willing to travel, observing the guidelines of mask wearing, social distancing, washing hands and wiping surfaces with steri cloths. Others will not travel until there is a vaccine and/or cure. A range exists within these options. These are all very personal decisions.

What is happening now to travel?

The world is beginning to open up. Domestically some states and regions are more open than others. Even CA & NY are beginning to relax Shelter in Place, in stages. Internationally we are starting to see countries and regions open their borders, starting in June and July. Nothing is back to pre Covid times, but tiny steps are beginning to happen. We still have to see where; US citizens can enter without quarantine. After all, we have managed this pandemic, worse than any other country. Countries that have 0 or low Covid cases, may not want to chance US citizens bringing the virus back.

When can you travel?

Some of this goes back to who. If you are in the, there must be a vaccine and/or cure group, then you have a wait ahead of you. For those who are willing to travel, using the CDC guidelines, you have more options based on your tolerances. Here’s my advice. I would wait to see how things go, as places open up. I don’t recommend being the first to go to an international destination. If all goes well, I think 4th quarter 2020 will be viable for certain places. For domestic travel, trips can happen sooner. More about this as we move on.

Where should you consider?

Warm destinations, with wide open spaces and outdoor activities. Think golf, fly fishing, hiking, biking. Destinations that have had low Covid impact or have recovered and have 0-few new cases. The Caribbean meets all of these criteria. Now is the time to enjoy nature, in more remote areas. Those breathtaking places, where you’ll have the beach to yourself.

The world class cities will still be there. You don’t need to go while the museums, restaurants and landmark sites are closed. Rearrange your Wanderlist. Is this your year to take that road trip to see the national parks? Maybe just a weekend away, to that charming little village, within driving distance?

Why should you travel?

Travel is healthy for your mind and your body. Study after study has associated travel with increased happiness, creativity and well-being. Taking time to disconnect to reconnect with your family and loved ones, not only improves those relationships, but all your relationships. People who travel are promoted more often and make more money. Travel creates memories that are shared for a lifetime. Travel is educational, on so many levels. It broadens your horizons and opens new doors. New experiences and new friendships enrich your life.

Has Shelter in Place and being distanced from your loved ones, made you want to plan for some quality time together?

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer”

How can you travel?

This is for you, if you have decided you are open to traveling before the vaccine and/or cure is in place.

These are the important considerations. Avoid crowds, take private tours, be out in open spaces, only stay in hotels and rentals that are professionally managed. You want to be sure the sanitation procedures are rigid. For now, I would avoid owner run B&B’s, Air B&B and any other similar rental systems, that do not have professional management, inspecting properties, to be sure they are up to standards. 

Domestically: 

You can do day trips or weekend getaways to cute little towns or seaside communities near were you leave. Check to see what the restaurant situation is to be sure you can dine. In some places, only hotels are opening. Restaurants may only be take-out. That’s fine, you just want to know what to expect.

Ready to go further, think national parks. The parks have been gearing up for this. They have instituted sanitizing and safe practices. However, information centers and other self-guided experiences may be limited or not open at all. Private guides with private vehicle have access that are not available on your own. We have some fabulous private itineraries planned for parks in Alaska, Utah, Arizona, Wyoming, and Montana. More as more states open up. Combining a luxury mountain ranch, with a national park visit could be a fabulous summer option. Maybe this is the time to learn fly-fishing or rent a lakefront house with no one nearby. We have lots of ideas.

Internationally: 

The Caribbean, Mexico, Africa and Europe are slowly opening up. I would consider these destinations as early as 4th quarter 2020. My mantra to clients, with regard to cancellations, has been “Wait & See”. It has worked very well and clients have gotten the best results. I feel this applies equally well to 4th quarter bookings. These destinations will be opening June and July. Let’s sit back and observe how it goes. There will be some bumps as they ramp back up and accommodate all the new regulations as well as plans for contactless movement through airports and passport controls. If all goes well, I think 4th quarter can be a go.

Holiday Time: 

If your family always goes away for Thanksgiving and/or the Holiday/New Year’s break, you still can. Rent a villa on a private beach, you’ll have a pool to yourself, the place will be sanitized before you arrive. We can even have it stocked with groceries and a private chef. It might not be the resort you always go to, but it’s a socially distanced way of being together, as an alternative to staying home.

Safari in Africa: 

Talk about being remote, no crowds and out in nature. Maybe this is the time to move that Bucket List item up. Safaris usually need to be planned a year to 18 months in advance. Exactly because the accommodations at the camps are very limited. Given the current situation, we might be able to find some last-minute openings. Could this be the Holiday gift for everyone in your family?

“Vacation Do Over”

If you had a trip planned for 2020 it’s likely, you have a Future Travel Credit. Many people have asked if there will be deals and should they wait to book their trip. The answer is no. All the cancellations, worldwide, are now looking to re-book their trips for 2021. The problem is many people had already booked vacations for 2021, before Covid-19. As I mentioned before African Safaris are booked 1-2 years in advance. Families that know a milestone celebration is happening, will often book far in advance. Destination weddings canceled in 2020 are competing with weddings previously booked for 2021. There will be a lot of vacation dollars chasing the same availability's. Layer that with hotels, cruise lines limiting occupancy to maintain social distancing and there are not going to be tons of deals. I would re-book your vacation sooner than later. Most companies are offering some kind of Peace of Mind Terms and Conditions for booking now. You can wait on airfare, but I wouldn’t for the rest.

The good news is there are options for this summer and certainly 4th quarter 2020. However, to maintain social distancing and avoid crowds, the options are going to be higher end; smaller, more luxurious properties and private guide experiences.

For those who are concerned about commercial flights (and your travel budget allows), private jets are an option.

Please feel free to contact us to talk about your thoughts, concerns and dreams. We are here to give you information, so that you can make the decision that feels right for you. Everyone is different, there is no right or wrong.

Travel will come back to normal. It always has.

Until the vaccine and/or cure, there will be changes to how you do travel. How much you want to adapt to that, is your decision. 

We make it easy to experience the joy of travel without the effort.

We turn travel fantasies into realities for individuals and groups.

Call me, let's talk! 415 931-1945. 

Prefer to email? info@WeMakeTravelEasy.com

Community Immunity

Immunity is defined as “resistance to or protection against a specified disease; power to resist infection”. When the body is exposed to a disease or toxin that it has never seen before, the immune system kicks in and produces antibodies to help combat the illness and protect the system from future infections of the same disease. It’s one of the amazing protective functions of our bodies; our immune system.

Unfortunately, it’s not protecting us against COVID-19. For that we are depending on the brilliant minds of our doctors and research scientists. They’ve done it for measles, mumps, smallpox, influenza, polio, just to name a few. I am totally confident they will win the battle against Covid-19 too.

In the meantime, our best protection against this infection is Shelter in Place and Social Distancing. Although it’s doing what our natural immune systems can’t, it created another enemy - isolation. As humans, we are naturally social creatures. We live in community. So what can we do to protect against the negative effects of isolation? We need to build immunity for our communities. 

Building “Community Immunity” 

1. Your body has to stay home right now, but your imagination doesn’t! 

Follow me on Facebook or Instagram. We are posting lots of beautiful photos of destinations, that you will want to visit, once it is safe to travel again.

Daydream about your Bucket List. Do research, watch videos, read travel books about that place that calls to you. Talk with your family and friends about their bucket-lists. You might be surprised to learn that your teenage son has always dreamed of surfing the waves off of Teahupo’o,Tahiti. I was there in September, just a day or so after the World Surf League’s Pro Competition. Paradise! When this is all over, let’s make those dreams come true.

2. Be thoughtful, kind and generous in your neighborhood community.

Check-in on neighbors who live alone. If you are venturing out to the grocery store, pharmacy or bank, ask if anyone needs anything. Bake 2 lasagnas or loaves of bread instead of 1 and share. 

Don’t purchase and hoard supplies that you really don’t need. Be kind and generous to your neighborhood “essential” workers who are risking their own well being to provide services for us. I always thank the grocery store clerks. If it wasn’t for their selflessness, we would all be hoarding TP and other items.

If your kids are at home, brainstorm ways that they can contribute to the community. This may end up being the most valuable lesson they learn and may shape their future goals and career. 

3. Stay in touch with your family and friends via phone, video chat, Zoom meetings, etc.

So many of us have our loved ones spread out around the country and even around the globe. Personally, I love that people have realized cell phones can also be used for phone calls, not just texts and email. Receiving check in phone calls and emails from the Millennials in my life, have been so touching.

Zoom cocktail parties, birthday parties, Passover Seders, religious services are all the “new normal”. Millions of people are on Zoom now, many of whom had never heard of it a month ago. Take turns sharing funny stories and reminiscing about past events. Plan for future visits, multi-generational vacations you will take. Family and friends are our most important communities. Show the love. Create memories now, that you will talk about in years to come.  

4. Be a Citizen Scientist. UCSF Medical Center in San Francisco has the COVID-19 ”Citizen Scientist” Initiative.

Any adult with a smartphone can help fight coronavirus. Researchers at UCSF have developed a phone app, that is easy to use. They want to collect data from millions of people around the globe. This data will be incredibly valuable to advance the understanding of the disease. You may not be a healthcare worker, but you can help fight this, from the safety of your own home.

Just text 41411. Then in the message box, type COVID (all caps). You will get a link to sign up for the study. You’ll have to go to your phone store app, to download UCSF Eureka Research app. Install it, open it. Then sign up. You will be asked to enter some data about you. This may take 5 minutes or so. Once this is done, then every 3 days or so they will ask you to answer 3 or 4 questions about your health and exposure to other people. That’s it! Easy peasy and you are doing a great service to fight this disease. Here’s the link to the UCSF website describing the study. Let’s get this going viral! 

I shared a few thoughts on how to build your own “community immunity”. Start developing your own antibodies to isolation and separation that social distancing has forced upon us. Sooner than later we will be back to “normal” and I’m hoping that it will be an even better “normal”. One where kindness reigns, we show our appreciation for each other and are grateful for incredible freedoms to explore the world again  

In the meantime, take care, wash your hands, stay healthy!

Call Me - Let's Talk ! 415-931-1945
Prefer to Email? info@WeMakeTravelEasy.Com

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