For a long time, we have been looking at this fall as an idealized start to a return to normal international travel, as more and more nations vaccinate their populations against COVID-19. But now that September is coming ever closer, the question looms: is it actually going to be safe to travel this fall? Should we start booking our tickets?
Well, it depends on several factors. If you’re unvaccinated, international travel is definitely a bad idea. And if you’re vaccinated but suffer from underlying health issues, it may also be best to avoid it in order to be safer than sorry.
What if you are vaccinated? Well, the truth is that many countries that have been letting in vaccinated tourists are currently bringing back restrictions in the face of the Delta variant, and it’s highly possible that places you think you can visit now will no longer be open in the fall.
So your best bet? Only book travel to places where vaccination rates are high and if you are vaccinated yourself, and make sure to get refundable or exchangeable tickets as well as comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage. And don’t be surprised if your trip will be delayed or canceled.