Destinations that are still difficult to travel to due to covid

Not long ago, travelers had a list of places they could easily visit as Covid-19 closed borders around the world.

But with most of the world now open again, the more pertinent question is where can’t you go?

While New Zealand’s border policies were once described as a “hermit kingdom”, as of 11.59pm on 31 July, we are now fully open to travelers from all over the world.

The remaining Covid-related entry requirement is for fully vaccinated travelers to New Zealand to take two Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) on arrival. If a traveler tests positive, they are required to undergo a PCR test and self-isolate for seven days, although the traveler is only required to comply with this.

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Some destination borders will remain closed to tourists, while others may be subject to Covid-related entry requirements such as pre-departure tests.

Here are some destinations that are still difficult to travel to.

China: Closed to tourists.

China in 2010 It was one of the most visited countries in 2019, with more than 140,000 Kiwis returning from that trip. But the country’s borders remain largely closed as the government continues to pursue a zero-covid strategy.

However, there are early signs of a resumption of contact with the quarantine period for eligible visitors from overseas reduced to seven days (plus an additional three days of self-isolation) and commercial international flights gradually resuming after a two-year ban.

Taiwan: Closed to tourists.

Taiwan’s borders are open to some categories of travelers, including business travelers and international students, but remain closed to tourists.

Hong Kong: Open, but in quarantine

Hong Kong welcomed non-residents in May, but there are still significant Covid restrictions in place. Travelers must submit a pre-departure test within 48 hours of departure and proof of a seven-night stay at the designated quarantine hotel.

Upon arrival in Hong Kong, travelers must undergo both PCR and RAT screenings at the airport for Covid-19. Travelers are also tested during their stay in the quarantine hotel and must arrange for additional tests at the Community Testing Center on days 9 and 12.

At any time, those who test positive are admitted to a public hospital or an independent facility.

Japan: It is open, but not for independent travel

On June 10, Japan reopened to international visitors from 98 “low risk” countries, including New Zealand. However, you cannot go as an independent traveler – you must be part of a government-approved guided tour.

Those traveling to Japan on one of these tours must obtain a visa, and submit a pre-departure test within 72 hours of departure.

South Korea: Open, but with pre-departure and arrival testing

Unlike Japan, South Korea is open to all types of tourists. However, travelers must submit a pre-departure test and pre-book a PCR test upon arrival at Incheon Airport or within one day of arrival at a medical facility near your residence.

If the test is positive, travelers must spend seven days in isolation.

Samoa: Open, but with pre-departure and arrival testing

As of August 1, Samoa has opened its borders to international visitors. Travelers must undergo a pre-departure test (RAT taken within 24 hours of flight or PCR done within 48 hours) and another test on arrival.

Travelers should arrange to have a RAT at a health facility on the 5th day and report the results to the Ministry of Health. If the test is positive, they must self-isolate for seven days.

Tonga: Open, but limited flights and pre-departure and arrival testing

Tonga has opened its borders to international visitors since August 1. But flights to the kingdom will be limited for the first time, with two flights a week from New Zealand until August 28, when a third flight will be added. From October 31, the schedule may increase to six flights a week.

Travelers must submit a negative RAT taken within 24 hours of departure. In addition, within 3 to 5 days of arrival, they should arrange for a PCR test to be done at an authorized health center, and the results will be reported to the Ministry of Health. If positive, travelers must isolate for at least five days.

Solomon Islands: Open, but with pre-departure and arrival testing

The Solomon Islands opened to international travelers in July. Travelers are required to submit a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure, and another PCR (or RAT if PCR is not available) 3 days after arrival. Those who test positive must self-isolate for seven days.

Vanuatu: Open, but with pre-departure testing

Vanuatu opened its borders to international travelers in July. Travelers are required to present a negative pre-departure test upon check-in.

New: Open, but with pre-departure and arrival testing

Niue opened to Kiwi travelers on June 27, with flights only available via New Zealand. Travelers must take a pre-departure PCR test within 48 hours of departure and follow-up PCR tests on arrival on days 1 and 3. These tests should be done at Nieu Fu Hospital. Those who test positive must self-isolate for seven days.

Fiji: Open, but with access testing

Every year, the popular Pacific island destination opened its borders to tourists in December and dropped its pre-departure test requirement in May.

However, the domestic examination system remains in place, and is strictly enforced. Travelers are required to pre-order a RAT to be picked up within 72 hours of arrival – usually located at or near their accommodation. If they test positive, they will need to self-isolate for seven days.

Canada: Open, but random access test

Canada dropped its pre-departure testing requirement in April, but travelers may be subject to random screening for international arrivals.

Travelers flying into Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal or Toronto may be randomly selected for an entrance exam, which must be completed within one day of arrival. Those who test positive must self-isolate for 10 days.