https://au.trip.com/blog/internationaltravel2022/

What international travel is really like in 2022

Trip.com
Trip.com
Mar 23, 2022

If you’re anything like me, you’ve been counting down the days where you could travel overseas again. And although that day came last year, I can admit there has been lingering anxiety about travelling. Between entry requirements, COVID testing, quarantine and any other measures, the whole process was overwhelming.


Whether it was the universe sending me a message or by pure coincidence, I was invited to a business conference in Qatar. Feeling too embarrassed to decline the opportunity, I thought it was the perfect time to overcome my fear of travelling during the pandemic.


Where did I start?



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Image: Qatar Airways aircraft by Qatar National Tourism Council


Pre-trip planning


One of the best starting points is Smart Traveller, which will help you understand the requirements for your destination


The Travel section will list requirements for entry, including:

o Visa information

o Acceptable evidence of vaccination

o Pre-departure testing requirements

o Quarantine requirements, if applicable

o COVID travel insurance

o While many countries do not require this, I strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance with COVID protection.


At the time of travel, it was necessary for me to be fully vaccinated, as well as undertake 48 hours of hotel quarantine at a designated hotel. I pre-booked my stay at a quarantine hotel, which included a one way transfer, PCR testing on arrival as well as a minimum of three meals daily. This quarantine package was only available through one provider, but this will vary based on your destination.


At the airport in Sydney


I arrived at Sydney Airport extremely anxious about my first overseas trip in over two years. I was pleasantly surprised that all that was required on check-in was my International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (ICVC) as well as evidence of a negative COVID test result.


In-flight


While I expected reduced in-flight service, it wasn’t much different than in 2020. One notable difference is that I received a Protective Kit, which included a disposable face mask and anti-bacterial wipes. Meal service was only marginally different -instead of the entrée, main and dessert being served on different trays, dishes were simply brought out to the tray to minimize crew contact with the tray. Cabin crew were courteous and professional, with the overall experience far exceeding my expectations.


Arriving in Doha


On arrival, I headed towards the Health Desk where I presented evidence of vaccination and had my temperature checked. Most countries have a dedicated APP that needs to be downloaded on arrival and Qatar is no exception. I downloaded the Ehteraz app,the official contract tracing app which also shows your latest COVID testing status.


At the quarantine hotel


I was soon on my way to my hotel which I’d pre-booked before my flight to Doha. I was required to undertake 48 hours quarantine due to Australia’s risk level at my time of travel. This meant that I could not leave my room under any circumstances. During this time, I could not leave my room and each floor had security guards to enforce anyone who became a bit stir crazy.


Once I settled in, medical staff knocked on my door for mandatory PCR testing. The results were received within 8 hours and I received a phone call as well as notification via the app. At this point, I was planning how to spend my time in quarantine, which included a few yoga sessions and catching up on work emails. However, I received a phone call that would change everything.



Travel advice had changed since my arrival in Doha. Australia was no longer on the red list and arriving passengers were now only required to spend 24 hours in hotel quarantine. Once the initial 24 hours were up, and following signing a declaration stating I was COVID-free, I was free to explore Doha before my conference.


Out and about


As I strolled the Corniche with a strong black coffee, I remember how enjoyable being in a new city really is. I spent the rest of the day at the National Museum of Qatar, heading to Souq Waqif at night. Before I knew it, my conference had ended and I was shopping at Villaggio Mall before heading off to take my mandatory PCR test 72 hours prior to travel. I received a negative result via email, and again also through the app. While a medically supervised RAT 24 hours prior to travel is also acceptable, I chose to have the former to justify my latest shopping spree. I also needed to prepare for entry home with an online travel declaration, available via the Department of Home Affairs website.




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Image: Villaggio Mall, by Qatar National Tourism Council


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Image: Doha skyline by Qatar National Tourism Council


Preparing for my flight back


As I headed to check-in, I once again had to present my latest negative test result, completed declaration as well as evidence of vaccination. It was smooth sailing from here and my journey back was uneventful. On my way home, I purchased a two pack RAT to take within 24 hours of arrival and once again on day 6 after arrival.


Now that I’ve taken the plunge, I’m already planning my next trip to Asia. Need some inspiration?

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