Afraid the CDC is taking over your getaway? Don’t be! The second part of our travel guide gives you the inside scoop on how to meet test requirements and have your vacation, too.
If you’ve reached the second part of our study guide for traveling under CDC requirements, congratulations! You’ve planned your vacation, and you’re ready for relaxation. So what do you need to know in order to come back home safe, sound, and well-rested? Follow our Five Steps to Peace in Paradise … and let vacation mode take over.
1. Live Like a Local
Just as the U.S. has varying rules from state to state, any destination you visit will have different health and safety protocols in place, nationally and regionally, that you’ll need to follow.
On top of those guidelines, your resort will have its own set of standards to keep guests safe with as minimal impact on the vacation experience as possible. Friendly staff and helpful signs can keep you informed.
Pro-tip: If you want to know what precautions are being taken BEFORE you book, choose one of our TripTrust hotels. Certified brands like AMResorts, RIU Hotels & Resorts, and Iberostar Hotels & Resorts follow strict health and safety guidelines.
2. Stand Out for the Right Reasons
Have that private dinner on the beach during sunset. Swim up to the top-tier suite you treated yourself to. Stand out for all the reasons your trip surpasses expectation—not for making other guests feel uncomfortable.
Wear masks in public areas and around staff, social distance whenever possible, and wash your hands frequently for a trip you can feel good about.
Pro-tip: Guests who stay at a resort offering Exclusive Perks to ALG Vacations™ customers get the VIP treatment every time, with access to invite-only events, the best room locations, and more.
3. Don’t Wait to Set the Date
The last thing you want to think about when checking in is checking out. But you’ll thank yourself later if you set up your viral test (antigen or NAAT), now mandatory per the CDC, as soon as you arrive. With the knowledge that your appointment is already booked, you’ll be able to focus on simply enjoying your vacation.
Remember, your test date must fall within 3 days of your flight home. Aim for 2 days before you leave to allow time to get the results and avoid any potential flight delays pushing you past the 72-hour deadline.
Pro-tip: An increasing number of all-inclusive hotels in Mexico and the Caribbean are offering free antigen testing, plus complimentary quarantine rooms for guests who test positive. Ask if either—or both!—is included with your stay.
4. Give the CDC Your Autograph
Every traveler two and older flying into the U.S. from another country—citizen, permanent resident, or visitor—is required to submit the CDC’s Passenger Disclosure and Attestation Form to their airline before boarding. Rather than scramble last-minute for a pen, print your form out and fill it in at the resort. Come the last day of your trip, it’ll be one less thing to worry about.
Pro-tip: Plan ahead and print out a copy of the form at home, then pack it in a safe spot in your carry-on.
5. If You Feel Sick, Say It
If you start to show symptoms like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, mask up and tell a member of the resort staff immediately. They’ll be able to direct you to healthcare services and advise of proper protocol.
Pro-tip: Help stop the spread. When alerting the hotel, call the front desk from your room to avoid coming into contact with other guests or staff.
Once you’ve done all of the above, it’s time to stop planning, and start unwinding. And when you’re ready to head home? Make sure you’re prepared, with the final part of our planning guide.
