packmytravel.com https://packmytravel.com Pack your travel here Wed, 23 Dec 2020 17:13:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.5.14 https://packmytravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/cropped-packmytravel_icon-100x100.png packmytravel.com https://packmytravel.com 32 32 186080704 Egypt resorts set new rules amid Covid-19 concerns https://packmytravel.com/4637-2/ https://packmytravel.com/4637-2/#respond Wed, 23 Dec 2020 17:02:20 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=4637 To avoid large crowd gatherings and a worsening of the epidemiological situation, the authorities decided to ban the New Year’s entertainment events. Compliance with the rules will be monitored by special “secret observers” who will fine violators. From 1 December in Egypt, there are new mandatory closing times for tourist sites, retail businesses, shops and […]

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To avoid large crowd gatherings and a worsening of the epidemiological situation, the authorities decided to ban the New Year’s entertainment events. Compliance with the rules will be monitored by special “secret observers” who will fine violators.

From 1 December in Egypt, there are new mandatory closing times for tourist sites, retail businesses, shops and restaurants. According to the rules, shopping centres and stores must close until 22:00, cafes and restaurants – until 24:00, and parties and clubs – until 2:00.

Tourists arriving at Red Sea (Hurghada), South Sinai (Sharm El Sheikh) and Marsa Matrouh coastal airports who are unable to present suitable proof of a negative PCR test will need to be checked for a fee of USD 30 upon arrival. You will be asked to self-isolate at your hotel after testing before your test result is available. The Egyptian authorities will be in contact with you and will inform you if you need to continue self-isolating. Test results should take between 12-24 hours.

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Coronavirus travel update: the UK bans flights from South Africa https://packmytravel.com/coronavirus-travel-update-the-uk-bans-flights-from-south-africa/ https://packmytravel.com/coronavirus-travel-update-the-uk-bans-flights-from-south-africa/#respond Wed, 23 Dec 2020 16:21:23 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=4632 In the midst of concerns that a new Covid-19 version has been imported from the region, the UK has imposed new border restrictions on South Africa, effective immediately. All those who have traveled in the past fortnight from South Africa have been ordered to quarantine, as well as anyone with whom they have come into […]

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In the midst of concerns that a new Covid-19 version has been imported from the region, the UK has imposed new border restrictions on South Africa, effective immediately.

All those who have traveled in the past fortnight from South Africa have been ordered to quarantine, as well as anyone with whom they have come into close contact.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock also revealed “immediate restrictions on travel from South Africa” in a briefing this afternoon, suggesting that flight routes would be closed.

“We’ll be changing the law to get this legal effect imminently,” he said, adding that these “measures are temporary while we investigate further this new strain which is shortly to be analysed at Porton Down.”

The UK is joining a growing list of countries that have imposed restrictions on travel from South Africa, including compulsory quarantine and flight bans, including Switzerland, Turkey, Israel and Mauritius.

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Coronavirus travel update: the UK https://packmytravel.com/coronavirus-travel-update-the-uk/ https://packmytravel.com/coronavirus-travel-update-the-uk/#respond Tue, 22 Dec 2020 16:10:50 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=4618 Temporary travel bans from the UK Following the temporary travel bans imposed on the UK many passengers have been stuck in airports, train stations and ports.  Given the situation it is always advisable you check the latest travel information from official sources. Links can be accessed in our Covid-19 advice by country article here.  As […]

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Temporary travel bans from the UK

Following the temporary travel bans imposed on the UK many passengers have been stuck in airports, train stations and ports. 

Given the situation it is always advisable you check the latest travel information from official sources. Links can be accessed in our Covid-19 advice by country article here

As the countries are considering what to do next millions of passengers are waiting for a resolution. 

France has suspended any travel from the UK for 48 hours until a new travel protocol has been established. That means flights, along with Eurostar trains have been cancelled. The ports have also been closed. More than 3000 lories are waiting in Kent to be transferred to the continent. There are talks about resuming freight service. 

The government advices is not to travel to Kent as the lorry queue stretches for over 20 miles.

What does it mean for the countries export-wise? 

Well, the UK imports a lot of things from the continent: food, clothing, furniture, to name a few. 

If we talk about food, it’s Brussel sprouts, cheese, wine and other things that the Brits love. 

Some areas of the UK are under Tier 4, which means you are not allowed to travel to or from these areas. 

This is a time of uncertainty for all of us. For those of you who miss the experience of travelling and discovery, but are eager to learn new things we suggest you take virtual tours as an alternative, that will take you around the world. 

For those of you who are stuck at home and are seeking inspiration for your future travels when the bans have been lifted, for travel advice and news check in back later or follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. 

Photo by CDC on Unsplash.

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Top 6 countries to visit in winter time ❄️⛄️ https://packmytravel.com/6-top-countries-to-visit-in-winter-time-%e2%9d%84%ef%b8%8f%e2%9b%84%ef%b8%8f/ https://packmytravel.com/6-top-countries-to-visit-in-winter-time-%e2%9d%84%ef%b8%8f%e2%9b%84%ef%b8%8f/#respond Tue, 22 Dec 2020 14:18:26 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=4602 Looking for the best countries to travel in winter? We have chosen 6 best places to visit in the cold months. Read on! #1 Norway 🇳🇴 The country has become one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world. This country is best explored on snowmobiles and deer, although more active transportation methods, such as […]

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Looking for the best countries to travel in winter? We have chosen 6 best places to visit in the cold months. Read on!

#1 Norway 🇳🇴

The country has become one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the world.

This country is best explored on snowmobiles and deer, although more active transportation methods, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoes, are also popular.

One particularly snowy place is Tromsø, a small town located on the eastern side of Tromsøy Island. Tromsø is just one of many places in Norway that will make you rethink your fear of winter. There are other popular places, such as the Lofoten Islands and Bergen, which perfectly reflect winter in Norway.

#2 Switzerland 🇨🇭

Most people will be drawn to Switzerland in winter for the snow sports.
But you will discover the other side to winter culture in this beautiful country: the traditional fondue, made with local “alp cheese”, served in old guesthouses, the shots of kirsch, the cherry brandy, to ward against the cold, the tobogganing on traditional wooden sleighs, the ancient Christmas and New Year’s traditions.

#3 Iceland 🇮🇸

It makes sense that you would visit somewhere called Iceland in the colder months to get the full experience.

You can view the Northern Lights, for starters.
You can also visit natural attractions like Gullfoss waterfall, and the island’s various hot springs and geysers, as well as go horse riding, whale watching.
You can find the Gullfoss waterfall in southwest Iceland. While beautiful in the summer, it’s even more impressive when it partly freezes over in the wintertime. The waters turn vibrant shades of blue and turquoise, while the rocks gather ice and snow ⛄

#4 Canada 🇨🇦

Canada is a beautiful and peaceful place to go to in winter. There are places like Whistler, which is a popular place for skiers.

It’s one of our favourite countries to visit in winter.

#5 Russia 🇷🇺

Russia makes the perfect destination for a winter holiday. As it is a northern country, winter tourism is well developed and the country offers a wide range of winter sports, for example the ski-resorts of Sochi and Mount Elbrus – the highest mountain in Europe.

But some might be tempted to risk it just to enjoy the views of Lake Baikal. The word’s deepest freshwater lake is certainly an attraction any time of year, but in the winter, the body of water becomes a 12,200-square-mile ice rink. Dog-sled and snowmobiling tours are on offer, as are ice diving and rafting in the areas where the water hasn’t frozen over.

#6 Austria 🇦🇹

It is known that Austria is the home of Christmas. The beauty of Vienna is in the music and streets as they lay side by side with snow. There is also culture to enjoy, in the form of Christmas markets and other associated traditions, winter food like sweetly delicious Kaiserschmar.

Hallstatt, Austria is every bit as dreamy as it’s made out to be. You can walk the whole town in less than 20 minutes, but every street and view is just as picturesque as the last 🏞🎊

This was our recommended list of countries to visit in winter. What about winter markets? Read about Christmas markets 2020 here.

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Covid-19: what you need to know before booking activities https://packmytravel.com/covid-19-what-you-need-to-know-before-booking-activities/ https://packmytravel.com/covid-19-what-you-need-to-know-before-booking-activities/#respond Thu, 17 Dec 2020 20:00:17 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=4594 Travel restrictions may be changing every day, so if you’re planning to book an activity check the latest advice. Attractions close and reopen at a short notice because safety is the priority number one.  In this article we will share some useful information in relation to Covid-19 travel restrictions and what you need to know […]

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Travel restrictions may be changing every day, so if you’re planning to book an activity check the latest advice. Attractions close and reopen at a short notice because safety is the priority number one. 

In this article we will share some useful information in relation to Covid-19 travel restrictions and what you need to know before booking activities.

Cancelation policies

Before booking or travelling check out the cancelation policy of each attraction you’re planning to book. Some offer full refunds, others to rebook your tickets to a later date. 

Safety and hygiene 

Masks are mandatory in most attractions, unless the attraction is an open air and you’re not in close contact with other tourists. Wearing a mask also depends on the levels of the coronavirus cases. For example, some islands have a very strict no entry policy for those tested positive, this way they have been able to contain the virus. 

Hand sanitising. Most activity organisers will have sanitisers in place and will require you to clean your hands before entering.

Social distancing will vary from 1m to 2m. 

Gloves will usually be required to wear by staff.  

Regular medical check ups of staff are required in most attractions, if anyone shows signs of illness they will not be allowed to work. 

Additional hygiene measures

Most places have implemented additional cleaning and disinfection. Although some of them may vary depending on the specific country policy. Here is the a list of most commonly implemented Covid-19 safety measures.

-Limited number of visitors to ensure social distancing can be maintained at all times.

-Reduced opening hours to ensure adequate cleaning is in place. 

-Digital tickets and contactless payments will limit the exposure to staff and visitors. Most attractions require you to register and book your tickets in advance. 

Hygiene safety training is required by most places, including attractions, planes, restaurants etc.

Extra cleaning procedures have been implemented to contain the spread of coronavirus. This includes ventilation, surfaces and placing hand sanitiser and cleaning products in places where they are most needed. 

Covid-19 travel restrictions

For more information on where you can travel during the pandemic check out these articles below or press the Covid-19 map banner at the top of our home page. 

The latest Covid-19 information 

To keep up to date with the situation around the world and read the latest news we suggest you visit these World Health Organization (WHO) website pages: 

WHO coronaviruses Q&A (COVID-19)

WHO daily updates

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What to pack in your carry-on https://packmytravel.com/what-to-pack-in-your-carry-on/ https://packmytravel.com/what-to-pack-in-your-carry-on/#respond Tue, 15 Dec 2020 12:39:57 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=4586 So the time has come to pack you bag! The questions is, what should you pack with you? Here we have listed things that you will most likely need to have in your carry-on suitcase.  Documentation: Today some of our travel documentation is digital, such as boarding passes or train tickets. This is very convenient […]

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So the time has come to pack you bag! The questions is, what should you pack with you? Here we have listed things that you will most likely need to have in your carry-on suitcase. 

Documentation:

Today some of our travel documentation is digital, such as boarding passes or train tickets. This is very convenient and it’s a good idea to store them across multiple devices in case your phone battery runs our, for example, and you need access your ticket. Or even print them out, although not many of us still have printers at home.

-Passport

-wallet

-tickets

-credit Card

-cash

-valuables 

-travel insurance

Prepare:

Even if it’s just a short flight you never know who you will be sitting next, unless you’re travelling with friends or family. Occasionally, there are moments when you just want peace and quiet on your flight and things like ear plugs can really help. Spills and similar things also happen, so have tissue just in case. Entreatment, of course, is a big part of a flying experience. Some prefer audio books, some like printed more, others watch a movie or a documentary on their ipad. Budget airlines usually have no entertainment, so be prepared.

-Ear plugs 

-something to read

-tissue

-medication

Electronics and technology: 

Before flying make sure you have plugs or adapters that are compatible to with the destination country’s.

-Earphones/headphones 

-kindle / ipad / laptop 

-chargers and adapters (for you kindle, smart watch, laptop, bluetooth headphones, electronic tooth brush)

Cosmetics / Personal hygiene:

Don’t forget your mask and have hand sanitiser with you. This will help to protect you and other passengers. The air in an aircraft cabin gets very dry, so have water, cream , lip balm with you. If you’re wearing contact lenses saline or eye drops will help. Sometimes you just want to freshen up, take your toothbrush and deodorant with you.

-Mask

-liquids

-lip balm 

-water water water 

-hand sanitiser 

-mints

-deodorant

-tooth brush 

-a change of underwear and fresh socks

Take a good look at what else you will need on your trip. You may require additional things to take with you, or the opposite you may need less than what’s listed here. If you take a good case packing and planning you travelling experience will be smooth and pleasant.

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Travel recommendations and advisories https://packmytravel.com/travel-recommendations-and-advisories-in-europe/ https://packmytravel.com/travel-recommendations-and-advisories-in-europe/#respond Thu, 10 Dec 2020 10:04:37 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=4502 Travel recommendations and advisories These resources contain travel recommendations and information related to Covid-19. Follow the links to official websites where you will find government travel restrictions, requirements, orders and decrees. As countries continually review their responses to the Covid-19 pandemic, be sure to check the latest travel updates, requirements and advice. Check local Covid-19 […]

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Travel recommendations and advisories

These resources contain travel recommendations and information related to Covid-19. Follow the links to official websites where you will find government travel restrictions, requirements, orders and decrees. As countries continually review their responses to the Covid-19 pandemic, be sure to check the latest travel updates, requirements and advice.

Check local Covid-19 related travel recommendations and restrictions before booking and travelling

Follow the links below.

Travel information and advisories in Africa

Travel information and advisories in Asia Pacific

Travel information and advisories in Europe

Travel information and advisories in Latin America and the Caribbean

Travel information and advisories North America

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Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam | Virtual Tour https://packmytravel.com/rijksmuseum-virtual-tour/ https://packmytravel.com/rijksmuseum-virtual-tour/#respond Sun, 06 Dec 2020 11:32:29 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=4280 Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam View Rijksmuseum virtual tour here Take this virtual tour of Rijksmuseum and marvel at the masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. A Street View tour of this famous museum is provided to you by Google, so that you can feel as though you are really walking the […]

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Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

View Rijksmuseum virtual tour here

Take this virtual tour of Rijksmuseum and marvel at the masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. A Street View tour of this famous museum is provided to you by Google, so that you can feel as though you are really walking the halls of Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.

The Rijksmuseum is a Dutch national museum in Amsterdam devoted to the arts and culture. The prestige of the masterpieces in its collection is what makes the Rijksmuseum one of the world’s most famous museums.

Like Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, Van Gogh’s Self-portrait, Jan Steen’s The Merry Family and Rembrandt’s Night Watch. Many other pieces could take you by surprise and capture your imagination.

Regardless of how old you are or where you come from at the Rijksmuseum you’ll discover something different.

The Rijksmuseum uses the very latest technologies to study and handle the Night Watch. Since the masterpiece of Rembrandt is the most famous painting in the Gallery of Honour, the museum have chosen to restore it on site right there.

Not behind closed doors, but for us to see in the Night Watch gallery.

The researchers at work can be watched live by tourists. Whether in the museum or online. We call it the Night Watch Service. This is a paid venue.

If you like this virtual tour of Rijksmuseum here’s another great museum virtual tour – The Met New York.

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Travelling after Brexit – useful links https://packmytravel.com/travelling-after-brexit-useful-links/ https://packmytravel.com/travelling-after-brexit-useful-links/#respond Thu, 03 Dec 2020 09:13:46 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=4151 Travelling after Brexit – useful links What will travelling after Brexit be like? New Brexit passport rules will apply from 1 January 2021. Follow the links below for the latest updates. Brexit transition Foreign travel advice Visit Europe from 1 January 2021 Driving in the EU from 1 January 2021 Living in Europe The PDF […]

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Travelling after Brexit – useful links

What will travelling after Brexit be like?

New Brexit passport rules will apply from 1 January 2021. Follow the links below for the latest updates.

Brexit transition

Foreign travel advice

Visit Europe from 1 January 2021

Driving in the EU from 1 January 2021

Living in Europe

The PDF version:

Brexit useful links

Travelling after Brexit in the EU

With over 66 million trips in 2019, Europe is the number one international destination for UK travelers.

It is important that you start thinking about any additional measures you will need to take now to be ready for your trip if you intend to fly after January 2021.

It is also critical that you verify if your travel arrangements will be impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Check the Foreign Office advisory for the destination you are traveling before arranging a journey and before you leave.

Travel up until 31 December 2020

The transition period lasts until 31 December 2020.  Your plans will however be influenced by COVID 19, so you can consult the advice of the Foreign Office regarding the destination you are due to visit.

Travel after 1 January 2021

To be confident and prepare for your trip next year, there are few extra precautions that you will need to take now.

The Government of the United Kingdom has recommendations for persons travelling to the EU following Brexit.

Passports

You would need to have at least six months of validity remaining on your passport, and your passport would have been released within the past 10 years.

You can use the Government Passport Checker to see if your passport needs to be renewed.

Healthcare Care

As of 1 January 2021, the European Health Insurance Card will not be available. For ample healthcare protection, you may need to find an adequate travel insurance policy, with cover for current medical problems and certain events you intend to perform.

Driving 

You will need a Foreign Driving Permit for the places you choose to drive in if you are planning to drive in Europe. Depending on where you are visiting, you will need more than one. Each permit costs £ 5.50 and is accessible from the Post Office’s some branches.

For more detail on acquiring an Overseas Driving Permit.

Get a ‘green card’

You may need to receive and hold a physical Green Card for your UK auto insurance to be available in the EU if you are driving your own car in Europe. Your auto insurance company may have these cards available, but you will be paying a small fee to cover administrative expenses.

GB Car Stickers

When driving in the EU, you might require a GB sticker for your own car.

Traveling with your pets

You may need to talk to your vet at least four months before you depart if you plan to take your pet abroad. Visit gov.uk for more information.

Roaming Cell Data

You may need to pay extra charges for using your mobile data, making phone calls or texting from abroad. Review your data roaming policies with your mobile phone company.

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The Met Virtual Tour | New York https://packmytravel.com/the-met-virtual-tour/ https://packmytravel.com/the-met-virtual-tour/#respond Sun, 29 Nov 2020 22:56:48 +0000 https://packmytravel.com/?p=3961 The Met Virtual Tour | New York View the Met virtual tour here New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art  or simply The Met, is an interactive museum and has a wide range of cultural heritage to show. Explore the Met with this virtual tour. For anyone to see and admire, the Metropolitan Museum of Art displays over 5,000 years of art from across the globe. Two famous New York City landmarks, the Met Fifth Avenue and the Met Cloisters, are host to the Museum. But even if you cannot  visit physically you can engage  […]

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The Met Virtual Tour | New York

View the Met virtual tour here

New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art  or simply The Met, is an interactive museum and has a wide range of cultural heritage to show. Explore the Met with this virtual tour.

For anyone to see and admire, the Metropolitan Museum of Art displays over 5,000 years of art from across the globe. Two famous New York City landmarks, the Met Fifth Avenue and the Met Cloisters, are host to the Museum. But even if you cannot  visit physically you can engage  digitally with the Met!    

The Met has always aspired to be more than a treasury of unique and exquisite artefacts since its establishment in 1870. Art comes alive every day in the galleries of the Museum and in its exhibits and programs. It exposes fresh concepts and surprising similarities across time and through cultures.

The Met origins – art and culture for the Americans 

The earliest origins of the Metropolitan Museum of Art date back to 1866 in Paris, France. A community of Americans decided to establish national institution and gallery of art” for the American people to enjoy art and provide them with art education. 

John Jay, the lawyer who suggested the proposal, immediately went on with the project following his return from France to the United States. The Union League Club in New York, under Jay’s leadership, pulled together political officials, merchants, musicians, art collectors, and philanthropists.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art was incorporated on April 13, 1870. The Museum acquired its first item, a Roman sarcophagus, on November 20 of the same year. 174 European paintings joined the collection in 1871. Amongst them were piece  by Anthony van Dyck, Nicolas Poussin and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo.

Who would have know then that one day, tourists will be able to take a virtual tour of the Met without having to go to New York?

The permanent collection comprises of Classical and Ancient Egyptian works of art, drawings and sculptures by almost all European artists. And an extensive collection of American and contemporary art. The Met holds vast African, Asian, Oceanian, Byzantine, and Islamic art collections.

The museum houses encyclopaedic specimens of musical instruments, costumes, and accessories from all around the world. In its galleries, many noteworthy interiors are mounted, spanning from 1st-century Rome to contemporary American architecture.

Want to see more virtual tours? Check out The Louvre without going to Paris!

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