Anyone planning international travel should do their research
The federal government has been gradually reopening the Canadian border and easing travel restrictions since August, but confusion remains around what is required when booking an international trip and whether you should.
After the U.S. announced it will reopen its land border to Canadians many are once again planning their international getaway.
But before they do, the director of Government Relations with CAA Insurance, Elliott Silverstein says people need to take the necessary precautions, because we remain under a level three Global Affairs Travel Advisory.
“Depending on where you travel to -- you need to understand what the requirements are of your destination because, unlike typical travel, the rules may vary depending on your destination. So it’s about understanding the requirements of where you are headed to, but also the requirements about heading back to Canada because, again, there are requirements about testing and when it needs to be done.”
Canadians returning to the country from international travel are required to provide a molecular PCR test that could cost up to $200 and must be taken within 72 hours of their return travel.
Silverstein says things are very fluid and it’s also vital that you know what’s covered with your travel insurance.
“It’s important to understand what the restrictions are…are there exemptions, do you qualify for everything? I think in the past people were willing to take greater risks -- I think now it’s really important to take time, read the fine print.”
Meantime, the Middlesex-London Health Unit says travel outside of Canada remains risky and advises that people follow the guidance of the federal government, Health Canada and the travel advisories that are issued.
“Especially outside of Canada, you can’t be as certain of the rate of illness that is publicly reported. Many countries don’t have the same testing infrastructure that we do, so particularly if you are travelling in developing countries, you don’t really know for sure how much COVID there is, and it’s quite possible that the rates are actually quite high,” says Dr. Chris Mackie.
And if you had plans to book an international flight out of the London International Airport, CEO Mike Seabrook tells CTV News London they are still not authorized for international flights.
As a result, 14 Sunwing flights have already been cancelled for the month of December.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.