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Where to Travel Around the World as a Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Traveller

29 November 2023
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Finally, it seems the world is opening to travellers again. You are probably as excited as we are to get those passports into use again! Although rules & regulations can change at the drop of a hat, here is a quick guide to some of the destinations you can currently travel to if vaccinated or unvaccinated.  Your full vaccine needs to be completed at least 14 – 22 days depending on which destination you are travelling to.

Mauritius

Mauritius holidays awaits you! Yes, the island is open to vaccinated visitors as of the 1st of October, however you will still need a negative PCR test no older than 72-hours on arrival. Mauritius has long been the favourite for South African honeymooners and families, as it offers some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, tropical waters, is visa-free, and is a mere 4-hour direct flight away. Mauritius has a variety of accommodation options available to suit most budgets, from self-catering beach apartments to luxury all-inclusive resorts. We can guide you according to your budget, expectations, and requirements. Did you know 95% of our travel experts have visited Mauritius?

Mauritius - Where to Travel as a Vaccinated Traveller

Thailand

Your favourite island escape is now open for vaccinated visitors. Thailand has been the all-time favourite for many years and rightly so. With the friendly locals, tropical beaches, shimmering temples and sweet, salty and spicy cuisine, what’s not to love. Entry is still a little restricted as you have to stay in one of the Blue Zone Sandbox destinations for the first 7 nights if you are planning to continue your journey to other destinations in Thailand but don’t fear, the top Thailand holiday destinations all fall within the Blue Zone. These are places like Bangkok, Krabi, Phuket and Koh Samui (to name a few, there are 17). Chat to one of our experienced travel experts should you require any advice or want to know more.

Thailand

France

A city break to Paris, or a cruise through the Bordeaux, a beach break to Nice, or a cruise from Cannes? France is welcoming South Africans again and we couldn’t be more excited. Did we mention the option of skiing in the French Alps this winter, or Euro Disney for the kids? The options are endless, and a holiday in France should be on your list of must sees, if not for all the above, then for their incredible cuisine!

France - Where to Travel as a Vaccinated Traveller

Germany

After many months of being closed off we are now able to travel back into Germany. Within a few weeks, the local Christmas markets will be appearing again. It’s time to start planning: Germany offers an array of beautiful landscapes, magical castles and incredible architecture that are yours to explore.

Germany - Where to Travel as a Vaccinated Traveller

Spain

Known for its diverse landscapes, timeless beauty, architectural charm, wine, food, fiestas and siestas! Spain has always been a big favourite when it comes to European holidays. This beautiful country is now open for vaccinated travellers. Get lost in enchanting villages, walk the Camino de Santiago, experience the vibrant nightlife, sunny beaches and feast on their delicious paella. Whether you are looking for sun, sea, culture or adventure, Spain offers something for everyone.

Spain

Switzerland

Switzerland: home of the Alps, land of raclette cheese, maker of fine chocolate and watches is open to South Africans again! The Swiss Alps are open for the ski season, but if you want to head off before, why not explore the gorgeous town of Lucerne….or experience the beauty of Lake Geneva in Summer, or take a city break to Zurich. The options are endless.

Switzerland - Where to Travel as a Vaccinated Traveller

There are a few more European countries such as the Netherlands, Denmark, Austria, Finland and the UK which are also welcoming us …which is a great sign of the world opening again.

Should you not be vaccinated there are still destinations that are welcoming South Africans to their shores, such as the Maldives, Zanzibar, Namibia, Kenya, Egypt, Mexico, the UAE and a few more, however, these will still require your negative PCR test before allowing you to enter. Otherwise, Local is Lekker and there are endless possibilities on our doorstep too.

Our travel experts are up to date should you require any more detailed information, or need information on anywhere in the world. Our agents triple check all rules and regulations with the different embassies on your behalf, as different countries have unique rules regarding vaccination passports, and some even have a restriction on which vaccines are accepted or where the vaccination was given.

Here’s a quick reference guide as to which of our top travel destinations allow vaccinated and unvaccinated travellers:

Open for VACCINATED South Africans with some restrictions

  • Abu Dhabi
  • Agentina (1 Nov)
  • Australia (Sydney, Melbourne only from 1 Nov, parents and immediate family only)
  • Austria (entry within 270 days of last vaccine)
  • Canada
  • Cayman Islands
  • Chile
  • Croatia (entry within 210 days of last vaccine)
  • Czech Republic (digital vaccine cards certain countries only)
  • Denmark
  • Egypt
  • Finland
  • France
  • French Polynesia
  • Ireland
  • Malta (approved vaccine cards only)
  • Mauritius
  • Monaco
  • Montenegro
  • Morocco
  • Nepal
  • Netherlands
  • Nigeria
  • Norway (digital vaccine cards certain countries only)
  • Oman
  • Qatar
  • Reunion
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Spain
  • Sri Lanka
  • Switzerland
  • Thailand (Blue zones / Sandbox Model)
  • United Kingdom
  • United States
  • Zambia

Open for UNVACCINATED South Africans with testing restrictions

  • Botswana
  • Brazil
  • Costa Rica
  • Dubai
  • Ethiopia
  • Germany
  • India (15 Nov)
  • Jordan
  • Kenya
  • Lesotho
  • Malawi
  • Maldives
  • Mexico
  • Mozambique
  • Namibia
  • Seychelles
  • Tanzania
  • Uganda
  • Ukraine
  • Zimbabwe

Please note that this information can change without notice; it is best to discuss your travel plans with one of our experienced and knowledgeable travel consultants.

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