Can I Travel to London Right Now from USA?
In light of the present ongoing covid-19 pandemic circumstances, the answer to the question of whether one can travel to London right now from the United States is unfortunately a big no. Although it has been possible to travel between the two countries in recent years, many countries have implemented strict travel restrictions and safety protocols both domestically and internationally due to the pandemic. Most countries including the US and the UK have implemented Quarantine periods on arrivals which have made traveling to and from London almost impossible.
The restrictions have been complicated with the fact that in order to travel between countries, a valid passport and visa is required. Moreover, most airlines have significantly reduced the number of flights available making it almost impossible to book tickets from the US to London. The ban includes all, including American citizens, who wish to enter the UK for leisure or business activities. The UK government is also monitoring the number of tourists and travelers visiting the UK and are only allowing those who have a valid purpose.
Furthermore, the US government has urged its citizens not to travel internationally until further notice. In order to protect American and international travelers amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the US Centers for Disease and Prevention has warned US citizens to avoid all non-essential travel outside the country. Moreover, any US citizens arriving from international travel are now required to undergo a mandatory 14 day quarantine period in an effort to contain the spread of the virus.
In addition, numerous other safety protocols have been implemented. All passengers, including those who are transiting through the country are required to complete passenger locator forms and health questionnaires. All travelers must also have travel insurance in case any unforeseen medical expenses arise during travel. Finally, all passengers are required to wear face masks whenever they are in public, and adhere to social distancing protocols.
The restrictions have been implemented not only due to the severity of the virus, but also because of the concern that tourists and travelers will bring additional stress to the health care system and due to the fact that travelers may not be aware of the precautionary measures in place in their home country.
Given the present circumstances it is advised that one should not travel to London from the US until the conditions in the US and the UK have improved dramatically. Taking into account the dynamic nature of this pandemic, it is uncertain when travel restrictions and safety protocols may be relaxed or changed in the future.
What if I do Travel?
Although it is not recommended to travel amid the pandemic, if one does travel to London from the US, they may face serious penalties and fines. To begin with, travelers might have difficulty obtaining a visa or other entry requirements for specific countries. Further, travelers may be required to serve a mandatory quarantine period whether in the country of destination or immediately on their return. Furthermore, as a citizen of the United States one would be required to complete health protocols and health and travel insurance paperwork in order to be allowed in the country.
Additionally, if a traveler does not adhere to the safety protocols they may be sanctioned with heavy fines or even up to a jail sentence. Furthermore, travelers may be denied entry at the border if they fail to provide the necessary documents such as valid passports, medical history forms, vaccination records and so on. Finally, travelers may have difficulty finding accommodation if they cannot provide the necessary evidence of their health conditions.
Moreover, travelers should bear in mind that the regulations and requirements of international travel constantly keep changing and therefore it is important for travelers to stay informed and be aware of the latest regulations and health protocols in the destination country before traveling. Thus, it is recommended that travelers should do their research beforehand and make sure they have all the necessary documents and requirements for the country.
Where Can I Go Instead?
Unfortunately, as previously mentioned, most countries have imposed restrictions on travelers which have made it almost impossible to travel overseas. However, fortunately, there are still some options for American travelers who want to go abroad. Depending on the current restrictions in the country of destination, travelers may still be able to visit certain countries in the American Continent or Europe.
For instance, if one wishes to travel to Europe, some countries may still be open for tourism such as Portugal, Greece, Germany and Spain. Moreover, due to the important role of the tourism sector in the country’s economy, many tourism boards are working hard to make traveling to Europe safer and more accessible. However, restrictions are still applicable and certain documents such as negative PCR test results are required.
Other countries in the continent such as Canada, Costa Rica and Mexico are also open to American tourists. Canada has implemented a 3-step travel plan in order to prevent the spread of Covid-19. In other words, this plan emphasizes on the role of travelers in being responsible and adhering to health protocols. Moreover, there are some exciting road trips available from Mexico and Costa Rica with safety protocols in places as well as exciting natural sights to be seen along the way.
Alternatively, if one wishes to remain in the US, there are still many exciting activities, sights, and places one can explore. Many states such as Florida, California and New York have amazing places whether it is the beaches or the grand Canyon. Further there are many National parks across the country such as the Grand Teton, the Yellowstone and the Yosemite which will take one’s breath away.
Can I Travel to the UK In the Future?
The short answer to whether it is possible to travel to the UK in the future is – it depends. Firstly, the decision completely lies in the hands of the UK government and their assessment of the present situation. The decision of the government could be made by a variety of factors such as the pace that the country has managed to contain the virus, the rate at which the virus is spreading, as well as the ease at which travel restrictions can be implemented. Moreover, the US government will also need to take into consideration the health of their citizens before allowing them to travel.
In any case, if the health and safety of citizens of both countries are taken into account, the possibility of travelling between the two countries in the foreseeable future is certainly promising. Although the process of implementing safety protocols and restrictions alongside other procedures such as obtaining a passport and visa seem complex, the UK government is continually working to ease the process of travelling for both countries in the near future.
Conclusion
In conclusion, travelling from USA to London is not possible right now due to the present Covid-19 pandemic circumstances and safety protocols that have been implemented. Therefore, it is advised that travelers should not travel abroad until the situation has improved significantly. Moreover, it is important to bear in mind that the travel rules and regulations constantly keep changing and therefore it is important for travelers to remain informed of the latest health protocols and restrictions before travelling. However, if the health and safety of citizens of both countries are taken into consideration, the possibility of travelling between the two countries in the foreseeable future is certainly promising.
