I really missed travelling.
We left Canada for the first time since the pandemic started to the island state of Hawaii. It’s still the US, but it’s far, far away in the middle of the Pacific. What a world of a difference too!
The cool ocean breeze mixed with the warmth of the sun and the slow pace of life makes for the ultimate relaxing vacation.
Before we could even begin to think about sitting on the beautiful Hawaiian beaches, there were several requirements we had to get done. Here’s what to be aware of when planning a trip outside Canada.
COVID VACCINATION PROOF / NEGATIVE TESTS
The first thing is to check what the country needs from you before you get there.
In the case of Hawaii specifically, it was proof of vaccination and a negative PCR test from a “trusted travel partner” clinic and airline. Those tests are not cheap, so budget at least $250 per test per person. Ex: Flying with WestJet means you can go to clinics A, B and C; flying with Air Canada means you can go to clinics D, E and F. If you fly with a US airline from Canada to Hawaii, your test may not hold up at all depending on your route or timing or whatever. So be very careful, read thoroughly and call if you have any questions.
Other countries may not be as rigorous with their testing proof. The best thing to do is research and find out.
USING THE ARRIVECAN APP UPON RETURNING
It’s pretty much the same thing returning home. However, Canada doesn’t care about where you get the test, just that you have a negative PCR test. We were lucky to find a free testing site, even for travellers, in Honolulu – however, that’s not the case everywhere.
Check beforehand if you might have to pay for another PCR test 72 hours before your flight back home.
CARRY EXTRA MASKS WITH YOU
Hawaii has a mask mandate in place for indoor spaces. People were generally great about it. I don’t think anyone made a big deal, which was nice because we were able to enjoy pretty much everything as if it was normal.
Having extra masks on hand was absolutely necessary because it’s easy to lose the mask you were using while travelling. It’s also helpful to change your mask if possible during a long flight where you’ll most probably have to wear one.
MAKE A QUARANTINE PLAN
Hopefully, you’ll never have to use this plan, but it’s safe to have in your back pocket. Not that you should start paying for a hotel that you may never use, but know where you can go and stay if you had to isolate for testing positive for COVID-19.
ENJOY YOUR VACATION
Make all the hassle it takes to even go on vacation worth it. Enjoy it to the fullest.
The reality is, things are opening up slowly and returning to normal wherever you’re planning to go. In the case of Hawaii, I didn’t notice heavy restrictions in place other than face masks indoors. Restaurants were not operating at full capacity, and everything closed earlier than usual, but for the most part, it was still a fantastic vacation. We were still able to rent a car and drive around to explore.
So with that, don’t be afraid to take that step if you’ve been hesitant. Just stay safe and remember to keep your distance, wash your hands often, and monitor how you’re feeling.
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