5.22.20 Travel Update

Today's Travel Update

The  State Department still has a Level 4 Global Health Advisory travel warning.

Cruise - All cruise lines cancelled sailings through the end of July. Princess, Holland America, and Virgin Voyages cancelled cruises into the fall.

On a recent call to report earnings, Royal Caribbean International CEO Michael Bayley discussed the return to cruising. He predicted they will start with a few ships sailing from ports where most guests drive to the port. Since the large Oasis-class ships only need to be 30% full to break even and have more space, I think Royal Caribbean will follow Carnival’s lead and launch with their largest ships. It’s still question as to when.

All inclusive resorts -  All countries with all inclusive resorts are still closed . Mexican resorts are hoping to reopen in June. Dominican Republic resorts are hoping to reopen in July.   St Lucia has announced a June 4^th reopening if the guest has certified proof of a COVID negative test. For more island updates, click here for a PDF report from the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association.

Europe – The European Union extended the ban on non-essential travel through June 15^th. The Union is working on a plan to phase in travel. First, European Union countries would ease restrictions so EU citizens could travel between countries within the EU. However, Greece announced they will reopen to tourists June 15^th. Iceland will reopen its borders June 15^th.  

 
^{Universal Studios/ Disney World - Universal Studios submitted plans yesterday requesting permission to reopen on June 5th. Disney World has not submitted their plans yet.}

So that’s the latest. I still think Wait and See is the best course of action for 2020 travel.

• I am making reservations for Hyatt Ziva and Hyat Zilara all inclusive resorts this fall because they only require a credit card guarantee. Full payment isn't due until 14 days before arrival and you can cancel up to 24 hours before arrival. Plus it's a great deal and these are great resorts.
• For cruises and Europe - I think it's important to wait until the borders open and the ships sail before making reservations for 2020. I have made cruise reservations for large ships in the Caribbean for December 2020 because the final payment date is in September.

 
For 2021, I recommend booking cruises now with a refundable deposit. I can always apply better promotions or rates before final payment.

I think it’s important that you have the most information possible about what your vacation will look like before you leave your home. Will you have to wear a mask? Will you be quarantined upon your entry into the country or back into the USA? What amenities will be restricted? What ports will be open?