In May, countries will relax travel restrictions. Fiji, Thailand, and Switzerland are among the most recent destinations to return to normalcy for both tourists and locals.
Many of the remaining COVID-19 limitations that had prevented travelers from flying aboard have been lifted on the beginning of May.
Switzerland and Greece will remove immigration restrictions in May, while Fiji, one of Australia's most popular holiday destinations, will eliminate pre-departure testing requirements.
While numerous popular vacation destinations, such as Japan, China, Macao, and Vanuatu, remain closed to visitors, more gateways are anticipated to reopen during the month, with some lifting in June and July.
In May, the following destinations will be free of COVID-19 restrictions:
Fiji
After reopening to all foreign visitors in April, Fiji will ease its pre-departure Covid-19 testing restrictions for fully vaccinated travellers this month. Another change that will take effect on May 1 is that all tourists aged 16 and up will be required to be properly vaccinated in order to protect Fiji's local populations.
Before leaving for Fiji, all overseas visitors will be required to schedule an in-country RAT test, which must be done within 48-72 hours of arrival.
Switzerland
Switzerland is also anticipating a surge in visitors as it prepares to lift the remaining Covid-19 restrictions on May 2. All travelers will be allowed to enter without needing to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result.Switzerland will also be among a number of countries scrapping its mask mandate.
Greece
Beginning May 1, those looking forward to a European summer spent sunbathing on the Greek Islands will no longer be required to show proof of vaccinations or be tested prior to arrival. In September, all remaining coronavirus limitations will be reviewed.
Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong will abolish its prohibition on non-residents flying into the city at the beginning of the month. Overseas visitors, on the other hand, must be fully vaccinated, have documentation of a negative PCR test done 48 hours prior to departure, and adhere to Hong Kong's current quarantine standards. International visitors will be required to stay in a designated hotel for 14 days.
Travelers can also enroll in the early discharge program, which requires them to do a PCR test on day five and fast testing on days six and seven. Visitors are required to self-monitor for any symptoms for seven days after receiving a negative result.
Thailand
Thailand, which is known for its picturesque beaches and golden temples, would begin removing all Covid-19 entry limitations on May 1. Under the new reduced rules, fully vaccinated travelers will no longer be required to take a pre-departure or post-arrival PCR test.
Bon Voyage!
These countries and holiday islands have undergone a string of changes over the last two years and very good deals abound to kickstart the tourism industry. There are some new requirements, too, that you can always check with your trusted tourism officers.