Cycling travel is one of the most extraordinary experiences one can enjoy in life, seeing some of the most beautiful places as you race along your route, as well as the thrill you get when the people cheer you on; there is nothing quite like it!
The world has become a very different place in the last two years. The pandemic has changed the way we travel; at first, we couldn’t go anywhere, but now countries worldwide have made changes to their travel restrictions. In early 2022, some countries have more entry conditions than others, yet travelling is far more achievable and we’re excited it’s back on the menu.
For those looking to partake in cycling tours this year, below you will find the latest travel safety information from five of our main locations open for cycling.
Spain
As of now, as long as you can present that you are fully vaccinated and show a negative covid test before your flight, Spain accepts visitors from all over the world. Children under 12 may enter without needing proof of vaccination if they are travelling with vaccinated adults, young people from 12 to 18 years need to be fully vaccinated.
France
With proof of a negative PCR or Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) taken within 24 to 48 hours of departure, vaccinated travellers may enter France and not be required to quarantine.
*If you are unvaccinated and wish to enter the country, you need a good reason. You must also present a negative Covid-19 test before and after your arrival and complete a 10-day quarantine.
If you wish to enter the various hotels, restaurants, and events, you will need to present vaccination proof. In France, it is called a “Passe Vaccinal”. U.S. visitors can apply for a “vaccine equivalency health pass” at specific pharmacies for a fee.
Italy
Because you present either a negative PCR molecular test within 72 hours or a negative Rapid Antigen Test within 24 hours and prove you are either fully vaccinated or certified to have recovered from covid within the last six months, you would be permitted to enter Italy.
*As with the procedures in France, if you lack the proper medical paperwork, you will need to complete a five-day quarantine and present a negative covid test upon your entry into the country.
Belgium
Like Italy, Belgium is open to most travellers as long as they can present full vaccination proof and a negative PCR or Rapid Antigen Test result, 72 and 36 hours respectively, before arriving.
*If you are not vaccinated, then your quarantine period will be at least seven days; along with this, you will be required to provide a negative test result on days 1 and 7 to be able to end quarantine. You can also only travel to Belgium without complete vaccinations if you are either a citizen, resident or have to travel for essential reasons.
Australia
Currently, The country has some restricted travel and tourism. Regulations look set to change rapidly with the announcement to allow foreign travellers to Australia starting from mid to late February. Yet as of now, Australian citizens, permanent residents, and immediate families of either previous category are allowed to travel, provided they meet the country’s travel exemption requirements. A negative covid test taken within 72 hours will be required for all incoming flights. Since regulations are changing daily, your best bet is to check the Australian government website before you decide to travel. You may also be asked to take another test after arriving.
***The current risk assessment for entering Spain, France, Italy, Belgium, and Australia has been designated as very high by the CDC.***
Now even with the way things look promising, they could change in either direction at any time. For that reason, if you are travelling and participating in our cycling tours, then travel insurance will help ease your mind during your journey.
If you’re thinking about purchasing insurance, here are some of the things you may want to have in your policy:
Cancelling Trips
Most of your expenses will be repaid in the event of a trip getting cancelled or delayed. It’s a good idea to have CFAR in addition to your regular cancellation coverage if you frequently alter your travel plans.
Travel Medical Coverage
Travel medical insurance will cover the expense of care if you are injured or become unwell while you are away on holiday.
Your travel medical insurance may not cover you if:
- If you are pregnant and go into labour while on vacation, however, it can cover any pregnancy-related complications.
- You are willing to engage in any potentially dangerous activity, such as extreme sports, check with your agent to ensure cycling is covered (depending on your insurance provider).
Losing Your Belongings
Getting to your destination only to discover your luggage has vanished, it’s not unusual to lose luggage at the airport. Unfortunately, the expense of replacing your lost belongings can rapidly increase. If your luggage is lost, stolen, or misplaced, you may be able to save on the costs by having coverage for lost luggage.
At the end of the day, it’s more of a preventive step than anything else when you get travel insurance. Even if you don’t need it, you’ll be grateful you have it in case you do!
Much of the content here was provided in consultation with the folks at Money.com, it’s timely information now that travel and our tours are full steam ahead for the 2022 European Spring – Summer of cycling.
Reach Out to Us
Contact the Ride International Tours team at any time. We’re always available to hear from you through email, phone, and video call.
For news and updates, connect with us on social media, including our Facebook group. Join us on our Facebook group for additional content such as essential guides, everything cycling that takes the groups fancy and a special focus on shining a light on the smaller races, such as the upcoming Volta a Catalunya or the Tour of Catalunya, held in Northern Spain each year, or the route du sud the lead-up race to the Tour de France.For any other information regarding our cycling destinations, bespoke, DIY or health and safety travel, GET IN TOUCH WITH US.
