Michelle Tylan, chairperson PTAA’s 29th Travel Tour Expo that will be held on June 24-26 at SMX Manila, believes that health protocols are the reason why travelers are still wary about making their travel plans despite the so-called “Revenge Travel” hype.
During an interview at the media launch of the event, Tylan related a recent trip to a popular foreign country for a conference. “Each of us was required to undergo an RT-PCR test upon arrival even if we submitted full vaccination certificates.”
Despite her confidence, Tylan became anxious because, as the virus is volatile, she can be found positive considering it happened to others before. The fact that a positive result will ruin one’s chances of joining a tour or conference, the length of time being confined in another country, and resulting medical expenses is enough for the Filipino traveler to think twice before booking a trip.
It was also revealed in the media launch that travel to Japan just opened last June 10 but the traveling public has to be briefed that you have to buy a tour package from an accredited Japan tour operator and their partners here. FIT is not allowed as Japan is trying to control the influx of tourists.
“Unlike before, you can buy your hotel accommodation online like in Airbnb, Agoda or Booking.com, now you have to book your tour with an accredited Japan travel agent here including the visa processing. But flights you can book your own,” advised Arlene Tena, Cebu Pacific Director for Passenger and Distribution.
“With their opening, it would be good that you travel on a tour package and you are fully vaccinated with negative RT-PCR test result. Always make sure to check the travel regulations on their website, know the travel requirements. We have that on our website as well, and gets updated regularly.”
On the other hand, Korea has more relaxed conditions. You can now file your visa in its embassy but it has a new policy for unused visa. “You have to re-apply again for a new visa, even if you still have a valid one. Application through an accredited travel agent is advised,” Tena said.
So far, most of the members of the ASEAN countries have returned to hassle-free procedures, but travelers are advised to see their travel agent to be certain of their travel plans.